Banita Sandhu lays threadbare ills of body-shaming in the film industry
Welsh actress Banita Sandhu, who is known for her roles in the Bollywood flicks October and Sardar Udham, opened up about body shaming and revealed how she was once criticised for being too skinny.
"I remember getting body shamed when I did a South Indian movie. I remember people calling me ugly because I looked like a twig," she said in a conversation with ANI, recalling how that comment affected her.
"And how could the co-star be attracted to me in the movie because I was so skinny. That was the first time I think I experienced body shaming," she said. "But at the same time, it was this weird, it almost felt like a simulation because it was happening online. I don't know how to explain it. And it was from a culture that was something I hadn't grown up in."
The actor chose to take it in her stride.
"I was like, oh, okay, the beauty standard in this region is different to what I look like. And that's just how I took it. I didn't take it to heart. Like, oh, my God, I need to gain so much weight now. And I'm because I'm naturally very skinny, you can literally ask any producer I've worked with, like I eat the most on set."
Sandhu was born and brought up in Caerleon, Wales. She made her cinema debut with the 2018 Shoojit Sircar directorial October, starring Varun Dhawan. This was followed by the American TV series Pandora, and the Tamil film Adithya Varma, a remake of the Telugu hit Arjun Reddy.
The ace star said, "I was incredibly blessed. It was one of those things that, it was like a domino effect, and everything kind of just fell into place, and to have, your first movie with a director like that, too, it's a blessing and a curse, because it's a blessing to have your first movie with a director like that, but it's a curse in a sense that you really realise what a privilege it is to have a director like that for your first movie, and it's hard to get back there again."
Sandhu is gearing up for her next project, Detective Sherdil, starring Diljit Dosanjh.
While speaking about her experience in the film, she said, "I think it was the funnest time I've ever had on a movie set, honestly. I had the best time. It was incredible working with an ensemble cast like this, and we shot in Budapest, and it was so beautiful, and I really had a blast on this one."
Sandhu had featured in the music video Jindh Mahi, alongside Dosanjh in 2018.
"The great thing with Diljit is he is exactly the same as when I worked with him for the first time. He just keeps his head down, and he focusses, and he has a great work ethic, and incredible discipline, and I'm not surprised to see that he's gotten to where he has, because I've seen him put in the work over all of these years."
"He's (Dosanjh) the best-dressed man in India, hands down," Sandhu signs off.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
4 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♈ Aries Daily Horoscope for June 19, 2025
The fire's still burning — but it's time to channel it wisely. Today, you're feeling ambitious and ready to get things done . But don't let your impulsive side run the show. Cosmic vibes are asking you to take a breath before making big decisions. Focus and clarity will get you farther than rushing full speed ahead. Career: You're feeling extra goal-driven, and that's great — just make sure your confidence doesn't come off as pushy. A colleague may surprise you with support or insight. Collaboration = progress today. Love: Romantic energy is a little spicy right now. If you're partnered, keep things playful instead of picking fights. If single, someone bold and different may catch your eye — stay open to the unexpected. Body: You're buzzing with energy, but that can lead to overexertion. Fit in a solid workout, but balance it out with stretching or some grounding breathwork. Also, don't skip meals — you'll need steady fuel. Mental Health: There's a lot going on in your head today. You might be overthinking something small — let it go. A short break or a creative outlet can help you clear the fog. Pro Tip: Don't rush to win every battle. Sometimes the real power is knowing when to pause. Join our FREE WhatsApp channel to dive into a world of real-time engagement! This article was previously published on qatarmoments. To see the original article, click here
UAE Moments
4 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Bollywood Stars Shine at the Sitaare Zameen Par Premiere
It was a star-studded evening as Bollywood's elite gathered to celebrate the grand premiere of Aamir Khan's much-anticipated film Sitaare Zameen Par in Mumbai, India, on Thursday, June 19. From heartfelt reunions to buzzworthy fashion moments, the event truly lived up to its name — a night filled with stars both on and off screen. Here's a look at all the celebrity arrivals that made the evening unforgettable.
UAE Moments
4 hours ago
- UAE Moments
♈ Aries Daily Horoscope for June 20, 2025
You're not just showing up—you're taking the lead (again). But today's vibe wants you to mix action with intention. The Moon's still in Capricorn, and it's helping you zoom in on your goals with laser focus. You're driven, dialed in, and determined—not just to get things done, but to get them done right. It's not the day for shortcuts or quick fixes, Aries. Keep it steady and serious, and your efforts will get noticed. 💼 Career & Ambitions: People are looking to you for direction—even if they don't say it out loud. Step up. You're in a prime spot to showcase your leadership skills without being overbearing. Just watch out for micromanaging tendencies. You don't have to do everything yourself (even if it feels like you can). 💖 Love & Relationships: You might come off as a bit all-business today, and that could throw your partner or crush off. Soften the edges when it counts. A little vulnerability = a lot of connection. Single Aries? Look for someone who vibes with your ambition, not just your confidence. 💪 Body & Wellness: Today's the perfect day for a strength workout—physical or otherwise. Your endurance is solid, and your body's craving structure. Even a solid posture check or a power walk will do wonders for your energy. 🧠 Mental Health Check: You're taking on a lot—but have you checked in with yourself lately? Don't let hustle mode drown out your inner voice. Take five minutes to breathe and mentally declutter.
