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How intimate scenes are planned on set

Published : Sunday, 6 September, 2026 at 4:43 PM

Observer Online Report

Collected Photo

Rasika Dugal, known for her role in 'Mirzapur', says intimate scenes in Bollywood and OTT productions are now planned carefully in advance, with the help of intimacy coordinators to ensure actors’ comfort, consent and safety.

In a recent interview with news agency ANI, Dugal said intimacy coordinators are present during the filming of intimate scenes to ensure that no actor feels violated or disrespected. She compared their role to that of a choreographer in dance sequences or a stunt director in action scenes, saying trained professionals are equally important for intimate scenes.

Intimate scenes now part of detailed planning

According to Dugal, such scenes are no longer filmed spontaneously in front of the camera. Before shooting, the director, co-actors and intimacy coordinator discuss the sequence in detail. They decide beforehand where physical contact will take place, how the camera will be positioned and what boundaries the actors are comfortable with. The scenes are then rehearsed before filming.

Dugal said if an actor feels uncomfortable with anything, the team looks for an alternative way to achieve the same dramatic effect without putting the performer in an uncomfortable situation.

‘Closed sets’ provide another layer of safety

Dugal said another important responsibility of an intimacy coordinator is ensuring a ‘closed set’, meaning only essential crew members are allowed to remain present while an intimate scene is being filmed.

In the past, it was not always clear who was responsible for maintaining such boundaries. Sometimes the director, assistant director or a member of the production team handled the matter. Now, a designated professional oversees the process, allowing actors to know exactly who is responsible for their comfort and safety.

No such system during ‘Mirzapur’

Dugal recalled that when the first season of 'Mirzapur' was filmed, the concept of intimacy coordinators was not yet well established in India. While the practice had already been introduced in Western film industries, it was still relatively new in the Indian entertainment industry.

However, Dugal considers herself fortunate because the director and the entire unit of 'Mirzapur' were highly sensitive to the issue. She said every intimate scene was discussed with her in detail beforehand, including how the shots would be filmed and where the camera would be positioned. She also had the option to say no if she was uncomfortable with anything.

According to Dugal, although there was no formal intimacy coordinator at the time, the directors effectively performed many of those responsibilities. She believes the current system is more developed and safer for performers.

Why intimacy coordinators matter

The importance of intimacy coordinators has grown significantly in film industries around the world, particularly following the #MeToo movement. Their role is not limited to ensuring actors’ safety; they also help directors translate their creative vision into scenes in a controlled and professional manner.

Dugal said the presence of an intimacy coordinator also makes the director’s job easier because everyone knows beforehand what needs to be done, reducing confusion and discomfort during filming. At the same time, actors can perform with greater confidence.

From OTT to the big screen

Dugal gained international recognition for playing Beena Tripathi in the 'Mirzapur' series. The character, portrayed as a figure of power, survival and resistance, brought her wider acclaim.

The story of the popular series has now moved to the big screen with 'Mirzapur: The Movie'. Dugal has reprised her role as Beena Tripathi in the film.

-HIS