Alia Bhatt has recently addressed intense trolling and remarks surrounding a past comment about lipstick, emphasizing her belief in the power of love and acceptance, and acknowledging her imperfections. The controversy initially stemmed from a 2023 "Get Ready With Me" video where Bhatt shared that her husband, Ranbir Kapoor, prefers her natural lip shade and would ask her to "wipe it off" when she wore lipstick. This revelation sparked considerable backlash, with some netizens accusing Kapoor of exhibiting "toxic" behavior.
Addressing the controversy, Bhatt stated at the Hindustan Times Summit that she is "a human being, and I am bound to say four stupid things in public... But I may also say 14 intelligent things. But negativity travels faster than positivity". She also reflected on how such experiences have led her to become more private. "Maybe I have also become a more private person because of that, but I cannot fault anyone for it. I have never in my life spoken back or said, 'You can't say this about me.' I don't think it's fair with the position I am in, maybe the privilege that I have, it doesn't look nice to me…I don't feel that that's correct", the actress stated.
Bhatt further expressed her gratitude to her audience, stating, "As long as my movies are doing well and I'm entertaining them, when I say I'm grateful for all the love, these are the moments that I have to show my gratitude. I am who I am because of the audience".
The actress has faced trolling and criticism on various occasions. In late 2024, Bhatt responded to a cosmetologist's video that falsely claimed she had undergone a cosmetic procedure that went wrong. She firmly stated, "Absolutely no judgement towards anyone who chooses cosmetic corrections or surgery - your body, your choice. But wow, this is beyond ridiculous!". She also criticized the hypercritical scrutiny of women's appearances and the unrealistic standards it sets, particularly for young, impressionable minds.
In January 2025, discussions about the "wipe it off" remark resurfaced after Bhatt shared an updated makeup routine in a new "Get Ready With Me" video. Fans playfully commented on her changed lipstick application technique, with some questioning if she was "allowed" to wear lipstick now. Despite the resurfacing of the old controversy, many fans also complimented her look and noted her resemblance to Hailey Bieber.
Bhatt's approach to dealing with negativity involves focusing on the positive and recognizing the support she receives from her audience. She distinguishes between constructive criticism and baseless hate, choosing to prioritize the former. She has also emphasized the importance of kindness and vulnerability, stating that she will openly accept criticism as long as she is entertaining her audience.
