Avika Gor, renowned for her roles in television dramas like “Balika Vadhu” and “Sasural Simar Ka,” recently opened up about a disturbing incident she faced while working in the entertainment industry. Despite her long career and notable achievements, Avika’s candid revelation about being s*xually harassed by a bodyguard has left many shocked.
In an interview with Hauterrfly, Avika Gor shared a harrowing experience from an event in Kazakhstan where she was s*xually harassed by a bodyguard. Reflecting on the incident, Avika explained that while she was making her way to the stage, she felt someone touch her inappropriately from behind. When she turned around, she saw only the bodyguard nearby. The situation escalated when the bodyguard attempted to touch her again, prompting Avika to grab the offender’s hand, which confirmed her suspicions.
Avika described the bodyguard’s reaction as one of apology, likely hindered by a language barrier. She decided to let the matter go, acknowledging the limitations of the situation. “They don’t know how to speak English or Hindi, so I let it go. What more could I do?” she recounted.
Avika Gor emphasized the profound impact such incidents have on victims, explaining that the harassment in Kazakhstan has left a lasting impression on her. “If I am talking about it even today, then it must have left a strong impact in my mind to be careful every time,” she noted.
She also highlighted her mother’s role in preparing her for such challenges. Her mother educated her about the dangers of harassment and taught her to be self-reliant on set, only allowing others to touch her for essential tasks like makeup.
During the interview, Avika Gor discussed the importance of raising one’s voice against inappropriate behavior. She mentioned that she received training from a young age to assert her boundaries and ensure she was treated with respect. Avika believes that this early training is crucial for personal safety and self-confidence.
When asked about dealing with such situations with courage, Avika mentioned a story about actress Lara Dutta confronting a harasser. Avika acknowledged that having the courage to confront perpetrators is essential, but it is also challenging. She admitted that if she had always confronted such situations head-on, she would have had many confrontations by now.
Avika Gor became a household name through her role in “Balika Vadhu” and has since appeared in other popular shows like “Sasural Simar Ka” and “Laado.” Her talents extend beyond Hindi television as she has also made a mark in Telugu and Kannada films, debuting in Telugu cinema in 2013. Most recently, she starred in the movie “Umapati.”
Avika Gor’s revelation about her experience with s*xual harassment sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry. Her courage in sharing this story underscores the importance of speaking out and educating young women about personal safety and boundaries. As Avika continues her career, her story serves as an inspiration for others to stand up against harassment and advocate for their rights.