Esha Gupta, a prominent figure in Bollywood, has often found herself navigating the complexities of being labeled a 'sex symbol'. While the tag might seem glamorous to some, Gupta has expressed reservations about it, articulating her views on how it can be limiting and overshadow her other capabilities.
Gupta acknowledges that the industry often typecasts actresses based on their looks and skin tone. She has spoken about instances where she was advised to appear fairer, and how her complexion led to her being slotted as the 'sexy one' in multi-starrer films. She questions the notion that a darker skin tone can only be associated with being sexy or negative, while fair skin is equated with being the girl next door.
In an older interview back in 2012, Esha stated that she was okay with the sexy tag as long as people look beyond that and appreciate the effort that has gone into my performance.
The actress has also addressed the criticism she faced for posting bold pictures on social media. While some people body-shamed her and called her photographs "vulgar", Gupta responded by saying that she fails to understand why there is so much scrutiny on what a celebrity does. She added that she was not perturbed by the negative feedbacks but felt "sad" about people's mentality. Esha also made a point of emphasizing that there are many more important things happening around the world.
Gupta's perspective highlights a larger issue within the entertainment industry, where women are often reduced to their physical appearance. This can be particularly limiting for actresses who strive to showcase their talent and versatility. By speaking out against this typecasting, Gupta encourages a shift in perception, urging the audience and industry insiders to look beyond superficial labels and appreciate the multifaceted nature of an artist.
Moreover, Gupta advocates for body positivity and encourages women with dusky skin tones to confidently enter mainstream cinema. She has expressed her frustration with the association of beauty with fairness, questioning why a brown-skinned woman cannot be considered beautiful. Her stance promotes inclusivity and challenges the conventional beauty standards that have long dominated the industry.
Ultimately, Esha Gupta's reaction to being called a 'sex symbol' reflects her desire to be recognized for her talent and capabilities rather than being confined to a single label. By using her platform to address these issues, she contributes to the ongoing conversation about representation, diversity, and the objectification of women in the entertainment industry.
