The Audition That Sparked a Conversation
Sharing her experience on social media, Isha recounted an unusual request from Shanoo Sharma during an audition: she was asked to perform an emotional, crying scene inside Mia Cucina, a bustling restaurant in Versova, Mumbai, with restaurant guests present all around. According to Isha, the intent was to gauge her ability as an actor without inhibitions. With Shanoo and her team observing, Isha found the situation extremely confusing and discomforting.
“Being asked to break down in tears at a crowded eatery was bewildering,” she shared. “As a newcomer, this shook my confidence. I questioned why an established casting director would require something so daunting from someone just starting out.” Isha emphasized that auditions should take place in professional environments or, if they’re needed on location, the proper space should be booked privately.
Empowering Aspiring Actors
Isha ultimately chose not to comply with the awkward demand and did not land the role, but she has no regrets over maintaining her principles. Reflecting on the incident years later, she’s using her experience to encourage fellow newcomers in the film world. Her advice: never feel pressured to compromise your dignity, even for a significant opportunity. She said, “Newcomers should know this: you have the right to say no to unreasonable auditions. I’m proud I stood my ground and refused to perform a crying scene in a public place. #DignityFirstAlways.”
About Shanoo Sharma
As a key casting director for YRF, Shanoo Sharma is credited with discovering major Bollywood stars such as Ranveer Singh and Parineeti Chopra, and aiding the debuts of talents like Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor. However, at present, she has not issued a public response to the concerns raised by Isha Talwar.
Isha Talwar’s Acting Journey
Isha Talwar stepped into entertainment as a model before making her film debut with the Malayalam hit Thattathin Marayathu in 2012. She has since appeared in numerous acclaimed projects, including Bangalore Days, Article 15, Gunde Jaari Gallanthayyinde, and hit web series like Mirzapur and Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo.
