Renowned actor Saleem Mairaj has revealed that the trend of sexual favors in exchange for work, commonly known as the “casting couch”, exists to a significant extent in the showbiz industry. However, he added, no one can really answer why this trend persists.
Saleem Mairaj made the remarks during a recent podcast appearance. While speaking on the podcast, he shared that although he is often invited to attend film and drama premieres, he usually declines such invitations. According to him, he has no interest in being part of the glamorous side of the industry.
In response to a question, he acknowledged the existence of a lobby system in the entertainment industry. However, he pointed out that those who complain about such lobbies are usually the ones who aren’t getting work, when someone is getting work, they don’t tend to notice or raise concerns about the system.
He gave the example of how he frequently appears in director Nabeel Qureshi’s films, and because of this, some people might assume he is part of a lobby. Similarly, he often works with a few specific drama directors, leading people to believe he’s aligned with certain groups, but according to him, that perception is inaccurate.
When asked about the casting couch, Saleem Mairaj admitted that sexual relationships in exchange for work are indeed prevalent in the industry.
He elaborated that people in showbiz often misuse their power and traits, and those who prey on aspiring boys and girls usually don’t have real work themselves, they do it to serve their own interests or to get ahead.
He further explained that offers for sexual favors usually come from assistants or close associates of film and drama makers, not from the producers or directors themselves. These intermediaries often lack real authority or work of their own, and use such tactics for personal gain.
