Bollywood actress Ananya Panday has consistently advocated for mental health awareness, often addressing challenges like bullying, trolling, and negativity. In a recent interview with Forbes India, the actress shared candid details about her experiences with bullying during her school years and its lasting impact on her self-image.
Ananya revealed that she was often mocked for her physical appearance as a child, which led to insecurities about her body. “It may seem like I am very happy with my body and that I fit ideal beauty standards. I’ve heard that so much, but I am also very insecure about my body, and I have been since I was a kid,” she said.
Reflecting on specific incidents, Ananya disclosed, “When I was in school, people would say, ‘Oh, you’re a hunchback; you have toothpick legs, chicken legs, and you’re a flat-screen TV.’ I also heard things like, ‘Why are your arms so hairy?’ These comments affected me deeply. The fact that I still remember exactly what people said and who said it, 12 years later, shows how much words can stick.”
The actress underscored the profound impact of such remarks on a child’s self-esteem and highlighted the need for kindness and authenticity in society. “People’s words can really affect you, especially when you’re growing up. It’s important to be mindful of how we treat others.”
Ananya also touched upon the pressures of maintaining a flawless appearance in the entertainment industry. She acknowledged the rigorous diets, workouts, and effort it takes to look camera-ready, emphasising that actors are far from perfect. “I want people to know that what they see on screen is a result of continuous hard work, not some unattainable standard of perfection,” she said.
Through her openness, Ananya hopes to inspire conversations around body positivity and mental health, urging individuals to embrace authenticity over societal expectations.
The actress’s candid revelations have struck a chord with fans and sparked discussions about the long-term effects of bullying and the importance of fostering self-confidence in young minds.