Was Called Bamboo & Giraffe, Took Medicine to Gain Weight: Darang
Body shaming is a pervasive issue in our society, and it affects people from all walks of life. The notion that someone’s appearance is not good enough is a toxic and harmful mindset that can have severe consequences on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Actress Chum Darang, known for her roles in films like ‘Badhaai Do’, recently opened up about her own experiences with body shaming, revealing the cruel comments she faced during her college days.
Speaking to a leading publication, Darang shared that people used to call her a “bamboo” and a “giraffe” due to her tall and dark complexion. She revealed that by the time she was in college, she started taking medicine to gain weight, as she felt pressured by society to conform to a certain standard of beauty.
Darang’s story is a stark reminder that body shaming is not just limited to a specific age group or demographic. It can affect anyone, regardless of their background, profession, or physical appearance. The actress’s revelation highlights the importance of promoting self-acceptance and self-love, particularly among young women who are often the target of vicious body shaming.
It’s essential to acknowledge that body shaming is often rooted in societal beauty standards, which are heavily influenced by the media and popular culture. The messaging is clear: women must be thin, fair-skinned, and tall to be considered beautiful. Anyone who doesn’t fit this mold is seen as unattractive, unworthy, and even worthless.
Darang’s experience is a testament to the damaging effects of body shaming. She felt the need to change her physical appearance to fit in with societal norms, which is a futile and often dangerous pursuit. Body shaming can lead to a range of negative consequences, including low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and even eating disorders.
What’s alarming is that body shaming is not limited to the physical realm. It can also manifest in the form of emotional and psychological abuse, where individuals are constantly belittled and criticized for their appearance, behavior, or accomplishments. The impact can be devastating, leaving victims feeling worthless, powerless, and trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and self-loathing.
Darang’s advice to young women is a powerful reminder of the importance of ignoring societal pressure and staying true to oneself. “Pressure from society, sometimes you shouldn’t listen. You should just go deaf,” she said. This sentiment is echoed by many advocates of body positivity, who believe that individuals should focus on self-acceptance and self-love rather than trying to conform to societal standards.
In today’s digital age, social media has become a breeding ground for body shaming. Celebrities, influencers, and ordinary people alike are bombarded with unrealistic beauty standards and expectations. The constant barrage of perfect, airbrushed images can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
It’s essential for individuals to develop a healthy relationship with social media, recognizing that the curated images and stories presented are often unrealistic and unattainable. By promoting body positivity and self-acceptance, we can create a more empathetic and compassionate society where everyone feels valued and deserving of respect.
Darang’s story is a powerful reminder that body shaming is a form of abuse that can have long-lasting consequences. By sharing her experience, she hopes to raise awareness about the importance of self-acceptance and self-love. Her message is clear: everyone deserves to be loved and respected, regardless of their physical appearance.
