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When Sonali Bendre opened up about being body shamed: ‘I was called a lamp post, giraffe’

"Abhi wohi neck sabko achi lagti hai," Sonali Bendre added

When Sonali Bendre spoke about being body shamed (Source: Sonali Bendre/Instagram)

Much like films making a comeback on the big screen, many old celebrity interviews also often resurface on social media. One that grabbed our attention was Sonali Bendre speaking about being popular during her college days while mentioning how she, too, faced criticism for her appearance. “Now, I get a lot of compliments. But there was a time when I used to get a lot of brickbats, too. My leg used to be pulled a lot. I think you should ask me about those days. There was a time when I used to be so thin that I used to be teased and called a lamp post, a giraffe, because I have a long neck. It is an asset now. Abhi wohi neck sabko achi lagti hai (Now people like it). I used to be teased so much in my school and college days. It never mattered. I took it sportingly. If I am like that, I am like that,” Bendre said in a dated interview with Lehren TV.

Taking a cue, we ask experts how to deal with body shaming.

The way a person looks at one’s body and accepts it depends largely upon the culture one grows in, said Dr Sonal Anand, psychiatrist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road. “We have the added influence of social media and the goals associated with the so-called ‘perfect lives’ that are supposed to dictate our way of living and accepting things,” added Dr Anand.

According to her, a lack of positive body values and previous bad experiences can lead to insecurities. “Parents should educate prepubescents about the changes to expect in the growing body and learn to accept them in a healthy manner,” said Anand.

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As a society, we must start changing our perceptions about external physical features and extend our range of what we consider “acceptable standards.” “We need to learn not to let social media rule our existence. Communication plays a key role here. Talking about these issues can help get insight into the problem and come up with solutions,” urged Dr Anand.

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Spreading awareness about body image issues can help silent sufferers know that they are not alone, shared Anand. “Positively developing mental health includes physical fitness and correct lifestyle choices. Yoga and meditation are a big help. Having adequate sleep and taking care of nutrition can boost how we view our bodies.

Also Read | Esha Deol on menstrual restrictions and lack of sex education at home: How it can affect young woman’s body image, mental health

However, sometimes body image disorders can be severe, and resultant depression must be assessed and treated by a mental health professional, emphasised Dr Anand.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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