Ananya Panday has always been open about her mental health. From dealing with trolls and negativity to tackling bullying, the actress has always emphasised the importance of sound mental health. The star recently talked about her experiences with bullying during her school days.
In an interview with Forbes India, she revealed being called a “hunchback” and how such comments led to insecurities about her body. Ananya also admitted facing self-doubt and trying to fit the conventional beauty standards.
Ananya highlighted the lasting impact of words on a child's self-image and the need for authenticity in the entertainment industry. She said, “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. 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'.”
She added, “I also heard things like, ‘Why are your arms so hairy?' and all that stuff, like when you're a kid growing up. People's words can really affect you. The fact that I still remember exactly what people said and who said it 12 years later just shows how much words can stick.”
The star also discussed the effort it takes to look good in front of the screen, which includes strict diets and workouts. She hopes to convey that actors in general are not perfect and that their appearances require continuous hard work.
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