Ram Kapoor, a well-loved figure in Indian television, has been open about his experiences with body image and fame. While the entertainment world often emphasizes looks, he found his own way to stand out. People admire him not just for his talent but also for being genuine.
During a chat on Siddharth Kannan’s YouTube channel, Kapoor reflected on his past weight. He humorously described himself, saying, “My belly wasn’t cute, it was a planet. I weighed around 140 kilos, but I had a superhit show that the entire country loved. How could anyone ridicule me?” He shared how fans, especially those who were also overweight, reached out to him, expressing gratitude. Many said their partners loved them more because of his acceptance of his own size.
He also discussed the challenges he faced when he decided to change his body. Some directors even told him that his “branding was too strong” when he wanted to lose weight.
Body image can deeply affect self-esteem. Neha Parashar, a psychologist at Cadabams Hospitals, pointed out that positive feedback from society, like compliments, can boost one’s confidence. However, criticism about appearance — whether about weight or other traits — can lead to feelings of inadequacy. It’s essential to understand that too much external validation, especially for being overweight, can also discourage healthy changes. Finding a balance is vital; self-worth should come from within, not just from others’ opinions.
Feeling praised for aspects that don’t match personal health goals can create inner turmoil. This conflict, known as ‘cognitive dissonance,’ happens when external approval clashes with the desire for self-improvement. For example, someone who is praised for being overweight might find it hard to pursue weight loss for health, creating stress and confusion.
Parashar emphasized the importance of balancing health and self-acceptance without focusing too much on a single physical trait. She discussed two approaches: body positivity encourages embracing one’s body as it is, while body neutrality focuses on appreciating what the body can do instead of how it looks. Both promote self-compassion and healthy choices without guilt.
Here are some practical strategies to strike this balance:
- Set health-focused goals: Aim for improvements like better stamina or enhancing mental clarity, rather than just a number on the scale.
- Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues instead of following strict diets.
- Seek guidance: A nutritionist or therapist can help create a plan that aligns with both acceptance and improvement.
- Celebrate small wins: Recognize achievements that aren’t measured by the scale, such as better sleep or increased energy.
Finding the right balance between accepting your body and making healthier choices can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.
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