India, July 23 -- Actor Surveen Chawla has opened up about one of the darkest phases of her career, revealing the emotional toll the casting couch culture once took on her. In a candid reflection, Surveen recalled how toxic and disheartening the film industry felt at one point, especially when she chose to stand her ground and say "no" to inappropriate advances.

In an interview with Sidharth Kanan, Surveen said, "There was a time when it was all about the casting couch. It was just filthy, dirty to even step out. I was like, you know what, I don't want to do this anymore."

The 40-year-old star described that phase as deeply demoralising, especially as she began losing projects for refusing to compromise. "It was almost like the casting ...