Isha Talwar, known for her roles in "Mirzapur," "Article 15," and "Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo," recently shared a disconcerting experience from early in her Bollywood career, sparking debate about audition practices in the film industry. Talwar revealed that she was asked by Shanoo Sharma, a senior casting director at Yash Raj Films (YRF), to perform a crying scene in the middle of a busy restaurant in Mumbai.

According to Talwar, this unusual request occurred at Mia Cucina, a restaurant in Versova, with Sharma and her assistants observing. The rationale was that actors should be free of inhibitions and able to perform anywhere. However, Talwar felt the request was inappropriate and unprofessional, shaking her confidence as a newcomer. "It shattered my confidence as a young girl in films," she wrote, questioning the need for such a public display of emotion.

Talwar chose not to comply with the request, prioritizing her dignity. While she didn't get the role, she emphasized the importance of not compromising one's comfort or self-worth for a part. She believes auditions should be held in respectful, private settings where talent can be assessed without unnecessary pressure. "I do remember saying I can't do it and of course I never got the role... but at least I didn't give in to the weird ask, and surely I didn't cry at a restaurant for a role," she stated.

Talwar shared her story a decade later to encourage newcomers to stand firm against unreasonable demands. She advised aspiring actors to "feel no pressure" and concluded her post with the hashtag #Dignityfirstalways.

Following Talwar's revelation, Bijou Thaangjam, an actor known for his role in "Mary Kom," shared a similar experience with Sharma. Thaangjam said he was asked to perform a scene in front of a café during his audition for "Detective Byomkesh Bakshy". Like Talwar, he refused and was later called for a studio audition, though he had already signed "Mary Kom" by then.

Shanoo Sharma, known for discovering talents like Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma, has yet to respond to the allegations.

Talwar's experience highlights the importance of safe and respectful audition environments. In the wake of the #MeToo movement, Bollywood has begun to address issues of harassment and inappropriate behavior. Some production houses have introduced MeToo-compliant contracts that require auditioning actors to confirm their comfort level during the process and provide feedback on their experience. Measures such as installing CCTV cameras in audition rooms and having redressal committees are also being implemented to ensure a safe environment.