“Anjali Anand, Known for ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’, Opens Up About Body Standards in Bollywood”
Summary
- Anjali Anand Addresses Bollywood’s Body Standards
- Actress, Renowned for ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,’ Shares Insights
- Upcoming Appearance in “Penthouse”
Filmmaker Karan Johar’s return to directing after a seven-year hiatus came with “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” featuring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt in lead roles, alongside veteran actors Dharmendra, Shabana Azmi, and Jaya Bachchan. Bengali actors Tota Roy Chowdhury and Churni Ganguly were also part of the ensemble, including Anjali Anand, who portrayed Ranveer’s sister.
In a recent interview, Anjali Anand, who made her Bollywood debut in the film, shed light on the prevalent body standards in the entertainment industry. Anjali discussed her role as a plus-sized character in the movie and how the film industry continues to grapple with toxic beauty standards.
Speaking with Hindustan Times, Anjali expressed gratitude for the love and acclaim she received for her portrayal of a plus-sized character in search of potential suitors. She highlighted that her character effectively conveyed a message of body positivity. However, she emphasized her desire not to be typecast into such roles, stating, “Whatever comes next for me, I want to be very careful in what I’m choosing so that I’m not stereotyped. I hope I get to play something more challenging and unbelievably different, and not what filmmakers and audiences already expect from me. I want to play different parts, whatever it takes,” Anjali said.
Addressing the distinction between working in films and television serials, Anjali noted that the film industry was a new experience for her. She praised the professionalism and respectfulness on film sets, emphasizing the high standards upheld by everyone involved.
During the interview, Anjali candidly discussed the entertainment industry’s struggle with toxic beauty standards. She stated, “It’s not just the showbiz industry, even the audiences will not be very happy with a heroine if she looks like me. It is a very hypocritical world that we live in. Everybody wants to see a toned body and fair skin on screen. Sabse zyada seetiyaan item number par hi bajti hain. That is the world we live in and that is the truth nobody wants to accept.”
On the professional front, Anjali Anand is set to appear in “Penthouse” alongside Bobby Deol, Mouni Roy, and Arjun Rampal.