What do Ankitha, Arthi Agarwal and Gajala have in common?

Well, all the three of them are young actresses.

Okay, all the three of them having promised a lot at the start of their careers are almost without films in Telugu.

Well, there may be a reason for it. All of them had one point attempted suicide.

And Tollywood doesn't take kindly to those who try to take the extreme step.

Aarthi Agarwal attempted suicide just before the release of Soggadu as her reported affair with Tarun reportedly went off the rails. The bad publicity associated with that event ensured that the film flopped and the Aarti is out of films.

Ankitha made a bid on her own life by consuming sleeping pills as her co-star Navdeep in Manasu Mata Vinadu tried to get too close with her.

Gajala, soon after the success of Student No 1, attempted suicide. Though it was said that an affair with a senior actor was said to be the reason, nothing could be really confirmed.

Well, all the three are almost exiled from Tollywood. This reflects Tollywood's warped and traditional thinking, says a psychiatric counselor who has been sought out by some Tollywood stars from time to time.

Though no one has said that these heroines are being avoided just because they have attempted suicide, every one understands that to be the case.

Some of these actresses will find film occasionally. But they will no longer be in the centre stage, says a media critic. This shows a hide-bound and retrograde mindset, he adds.

Traditionally, Tollywood is ready to forgive the foibles and indiscretions of its men while it is not so large-hearted when it comes to its women.

Tollywood, in other words, has to grow up.