Actor Taapsee Pannu has candidly spoken about the challenges and awkward moments female performers can encounter while working in South Indian cinema. During a recent YouTube podcast with Shubhankar Mishra, the actor discussed certain demands made on set that, she said, can leave actresses feeling uncomfortable and embarrassed.
The conversation touched upon a past remark by veteran actor Neena Gupta about actresses being asked to wear padded bras. Responding to this, Taapsee said such requests are not uncommon in the South film industry. She explained that since film sets are often dominated by male crew members, instructions of this nature are usually passed on indirectly. A director may tell an assistant director, who then informs the styling or hair department, and eventually the message reaches the actress.
Taapsee described how these moments can become particularly humiliating during song shoots. She said being asked to step aside mid-performance for adjustments, while others observe closely to notice the difference, can be deeply embarrassing. According to her, certain films aim to cater to specific fantasies, and some visual choices are made with that intention.
Having started her career with the Telugu film Jhummandi Naadam before making her Hindi debut in Chashme Baddoor, Taapsee clarified that she does not hold cinema solely responsible. She questioned how audiences interpret such visuals, suggesting that perception also plays a role.
