Actress Areej Chaudhary has opened up about the troubling realities of the Pakistani showbiz industry, claiming that many in the glamorous world lack moral integrity.
In a candid podcast interview with Suno Digital, the star of “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum” shared her personal experiences with the casting couch culture. She recounted an unsettling encounter with an older director who suggested she “form relations” with him instead of proposing marriage. Areej described how the director didn’t directly ask for a commitment but sent her messages hinting at a casual romantic involvement.
She highlighted the resilience and tolerance required to navigate the industry, revealing that despite a strong audition, she lost a role. When she asked the director why she wasn’t cast, he replied, “You didn’t give me the ‘green signal’; how could I cast you?”
In addition, during her appearance on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast, Areej discussed the rampant drug culture within the industry. She noted that many individuals feel pressured to use drugs to fit in socially, further emphasizing the challenges faced by newcomers in the entertainment world.
The Other Side of the Picture
The dark side of the showbiz industry extends beyond individual experiences, as it often fosters an environment where exploitation and manipulation thrive. Young actors and actresses frequently face immense pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and societal expectations, leading to mental health struggles and self-esteem issues. This toxic culture can create a cycle of dependency on unhealthy coping mechanisms, making it difficult for aspiring talents to break free from harmful influences.
Moreover, the industry’s competitive nature can breed a sense of mistrust among peers, discouraging collaboration and support. Instead of fostering a community that uplifts one another, many entertainers find themselves navigating a cutthroat landscape where backstabbing and betrayal are common. This atmosphere not only stifles creativity but also reinforces the need for change in how the industry approaches talent development, mental health, and ethical practices.