Actress Shalini Pandey, best known for her debut in Arjun Reddy, has made headlines with startling confessions in a recent interview with Filmygyan. The 30-year-old star opened up about troubling experiences in the film industry, including an unsettling encounter with a director early in her career.
1. A Director Walked Into Her Vanity Van Without Knocking
“I was 22, just starting out. While I was changing, a director barged into my vanity van—without knocking. It was instinctive—I screamed at him on the spot. I didn’t care who he was.”
2. Toxic Work Culture in the Film Industry
Shalini Pandey chose not to name the director, saying the issue was bigger than one person.
“This is about a deep-rooted culture, not just one incident. I’ve worked with incredible people but also some of the most chauvinistic men in the industry.”
3. Surviving as an Outsider
The actress reflected on her struggles after leaving home to pursue her dreams.
“I had no family in the industry—no safety net. You learn things the hard way.”
4. Gender Bias and Exploitation Still Exist
She addressed the challenges faced by women, particularly those from middle-class backgrounds.
“People try to take advantage of single girls, especially those without industry connections. Despite progress, these things haven’t changed.”
5. She Rejects Comparisons to Alia Bhatt
Pandey expressed frustration over being constantly compared to other actresses.
“People keep calling me ‘another Alia Bhatt.’ I respect her, but we don’t need another Alia. I want to be myself, not a copy.”
The interview, which also touched on her upcoming projects, has sparked conversations about workplace safety and gender dynamics in the film industry.
Her recent projects were Maharaj and Dabba Cartel. It’s her unfiltered honesty that has truly captured the spotlight.