Breaking Down Barriers: How Intimacy Coordinators Revolutionize On-Screen Intimacy

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In the latest Bollywood hit, Saiyaara, intimacy coordinator Akshay Murarka shares the secrets behind filming the film's intimate scenes. With a focus on building trust and consent, Murarka worked closely with the lead actors, Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, to create a safe and comfortable environment. To establish this foundation, the trio conducted workshops on consent, boundaries, and trust during the first week of filming. These sessions aimed to help the actors feel secure in their own bodies and with each other, making the process seamless. The intimacy in Saiyaara unfolds through its songs, with each sequence carefully planned to capture the emotions and intentions of the scenes. For example, in the song 'Tum Ho Toh', the actors were filmed in a bathtub under an open-air shower, but with strict closed-set protocols and modesty measures in place to ensure their safety and comfort. Murarka emphasizes that intimacy coordinators have changed the industry for the better, allowing actors to perform more freely when they feel safe. He believes that this leads to more authentic and nuanced intimacy on screen, which resonates with audiences. As a male intimacy coordinator, Murarka acknowledges the importance of trust and empathy in his work, particularly when working with female actors. He prioritizes their comfort and well-being, understanding that this is a crucial aspect of his profession. Murarka's approach has been praised by the industry, with some directors and productions opting for female intimacy coordinators to ensure the comfort of female actors. Regardless, Murarka emphasizes that his goal is to approach intimacy with empathy and neutrality, creating a safe and respectful environment for all actors involved.