‘Sex for Success’ offer, claims Akanksha

Indian model-actress Akanksha Chowdhury has sparked a storm of discussion after revealing a disturbing experience from the early days of her career, alleging that a powerful figure in the beauty pageant industry demanded sexual favours in exchange for financial help and promised opportunities.

Akanksha opened up about the alleged casting couch experience during the finale episode of reality show Lock Upp, where contestants have been sharing untold chapters of their personal lives.

Recalling her struggle before entering the entertainment industry, Akanksha said she needed around Rs 1-2 lakh for costumes and training to participate in a beauty pageant. Coming from a middle-class family, she said arranging the money was difficult for her family.

According to Akanksha, she approached a well-known and influential person in the pageant circuit for financial assistance, intending to repay the money later through her work. However, she alleged that the person invited her to his residence and later made an inappropriate proposal.

She claimed that the individual told her she could have received major opportunities if she had accepted his proposal earlier. According to her allegation, she was asked to maintain a physical relationship five to six times a month in return for financial support and career opportunities.

Akanksha said she rejected the offer and walked away without compromising her dignity. She added that she chose to rely on her talent and hard work instead of accepting such conditions.

The actress said her decision eventually paid off, as she landed an opportunity in a major reality show within months and gradually built her career in the industry.

Her revelation left Lock Upp hosts Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh emotional. Farah praised Akanksha’s courage, saying that women can achieve success through talent, determination and hard work without making such compromises.

Following the episode, Akanksha’s claims triggered widespread debate on social media. However, she has not revealed the identity of the person she accused, and no response from the alleged individual has been reported so far.

-HIS