#UnpopularPopularOpinion: Does our idea of body positivity not apply to celebrities?

After discussions, thesis, and debates about her ‘crooked smile’ and speculations of ‘botox gone wrong’, Alia Bhatt slams her trolls with an open letter. 

Despite continuous efforts and discussions on body positivity and letting people have autonomy on their bodies, the internet remains a platform where people freely share unsolicited opinions. Whether it’s about a little weight gain or a shift in facial features, people often jump to conclusions about changes in one's appearance. The recent recipient of this trolling being Alia Bhatt.

It started with someone talking about her ‘crooked smile’ assuming how it could be a result of botox gone wrong. This was followed by people sharing scientific reasons on why it could be true, leading many to believe it. After much chatter around the same, the actor took to her Instagram story to share a letter addressing this and taking a stand against the relentless online trolling regarding her appearance. She highlighted the negative commentary about her “crooked smile” and rumors that suggested that she had undergone cosmetic procedures that went gone wrong.

Alia emphasized that she holds no judgment against those who choose cosmetic enhancements while calling the claims directed at her “beyond ridiculous.” She expressed her frustration over how casual accusations can be made without any factual basis, pointing out that such serious claims about her supposed paralysis on one side lack any evidence. She poignantly remarked on the damaging effects these rumors can have on young, impressionable individuals who might take these hurtful narratives seriously. 

No matter how “progressive” or “different” we believe the world to be, this perception is often based on finding comparisons from the past. The truth is, this constant scrutiny of a person’s body never ceased to exist. This practice is so ancient that it is often spoken about casually, without considering its effects on the person being discussed. We somehow turn a blind eye when people openly dissect a celebrity’s body and appearance! The fact that people criticize a celebrity like Alia Bhatt for having a facial structure they consider "irregular" and then turn it into content that generates clicks online, demonstrates how some prioritize views over empathy. In fact, it's disheartening to see that she had to justify the way she looks. 

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A post shared by Alia Bhatt 💛 (@aliaabhatt)

How people choose to be, eat, dress, or alter their bodies should not be a public concern; the only person it matters to, is them! Instances like these are cause for reflection on our thoughts and actions because everyone deserves respect and understanding!