Mumbai: An old video of Mrunal Thakur discussing Bipasha Basu’s muscular physique recently resurfaced, triggering a fresh debate over women’s bodies and fitness standards in Bollywood.
Amid the discussion, Bipasha has now spoken about her role in making muscular physiques more mainstream among female stars in the industry.
Speaking to Elle India, Bipasha recalled how female actors were largely expected to have petite frames, fair complexions and delicate features in the early 2000s.
She said she stood out from the prevailing beauty standards with her tall stature, athletic build and tanned complexion.
Bipasha also noted that muscular physiques were not widely accepted for women in Bollywood at the time, adding that she helped pave the way for a new trend of stronger, more athletic female stars.
She said, “I don’t think women with more muscle tone were very acceptable as actresses. But I think I started the trend, and I started preaching ‘love yourself’ to everyone because I realised it’s not just about looking good. It’s more intrinsic. You need to be healthy.”
Bipasha said the trend she helped start encouraged many women to exercise and prioritise their health, making people more aware of the benefits of fitness.
However, she questioned whether people today work out for the right reasons or simply to achieve a certain physical appearance.
In the same interaction, Bipasha also opened up about the pressures that come with ageing.
She said, “Ageing is like the biggest sin that you can commit. I believe that I like myself more, the person that I am today, much more than what I used to be in my twenties. What other people are doing, it’s their call. I don’t judge that. But for me, I’m never going to fall into the pressure of wanting to look younger than what I am. I’m very happy with the way I am growing older, and I’m very proud of my age.”
Meanwhile, an old interview from Mrunal Thakur’s television days has resurfaced amid the renewed discussion. In the clip, she was seen chatting with her Kumkum Bhagya co-star Arjit Taneja.
During their conversation, the two discussed the kind of physique they would prefer in a romantic partner.
While responding to Arjit, Mrunal referred to Bipasha and said, “Do you want to marry a girl who is manly with muscles? Go marry Bipasha. Listen, I am far better than Bipasha, ok.”
Mrunal faced backlash after her old comment resurfaced and went viral, following which the actor apologised for her remarks on social media.