Shamita Shetty, the new oomph girl in Bollywood, says nobody can exploit anyone against one's will. She also also adds that nobody is getting raped in Bollywood. The actress was in Lucknow to promote her latest film Zeher.
Do you think that the casting couch in Bollywood exists or is it a figment of imagination?
The casting couch does exist in Bollywood. But to be frank, it exists everywhere and not only in Bollywood.
Does this mean that girls are often exploited in Bollywood?
I won't say exploitation. If one is willing to give favours to get a favour in return then it can't be termed "exploitation." Why should one blame anyone if a girl is willing to raise her skirt?
Are actresses often subjected to rape?
Rape is an act against the will of a girl. I don't think girls are being raped in Bollywood. But yes you might be taken to the casting couch if you yourself agree to a deal. Nobody gets raped in Bollywood.
Do you still feel bad that your parents' name was dragged in the extortion controversy?
Yes, I feel very bad about it. But I supported them totally because I know what the truth is.
Are you having an affair with actor Aftab Shivdasani?
I don't want to speak about affairs especially media-made affairs. I simply read about media-made affairs and forget about them. Media often prints half-truths and lies to sell salacious stuff.
Do you feel you are more beautiful than your sister?
No. My sister is much more beautiful than me. I consider her to be a Goddess. I had to work hard to get a good figure. But she was born with a glowing skin, beautiful face and a sexy figure. While I had to slog at gyms to become slim and trim, God bestows Shilpa with beauty.
Do you consider yourself to be a good actress?
I try to give the best. I toil to give a good performance. But ultimately everything depends on the viewers. If I get applause from them then naturally I am bound to scale new heights.
