Gouri Kishan Slams Reporter for Body-Shaming Question: “You’re a Disgrace to Journalism”
The actor confronted a journalist for an inappropriate question about her weight, sparking a broader debate on sexism and respect in the film industry.
Chennai, Nov 7: Actor Gouri Kishan made headlines after she confronted a journalist for asking an inappropriate question about her weight during a press meet for her upcoming film Others. The incident, which took place in Chennai ahead of the movie’s November 7 release, has ignited widespread discussions on sexism and body-shaming in the film industry.
The controversy began when a reporter asked Gouri’s co-star Aditya Madhavan about having to lift her in a scene, framing the question around her weight. Initially taken aback, Gouri later addressed the issue directly, calling out the reporter for his conduct during a subsequent interaction.
“How does my weight concern you? How is it relevant to this movie? Every woman has a different body type. I will let my talent speak. I’ve only done character driven films so far. I don’t need your validation,” Gouri said firmly.
When the reporter attempted to defend the question as “light hearted,” Gouri responded sharply, “I did not find it funny. Stop normalising body shaming. It was a question about me; I have the right to have an opinion.”
Expressing frustration that questions about her performance were ignored, Gouri remarked, “I haven’t been asked a single question about my character or preparation for the role. But everyone wants to know about my weight.” She also challenged the gender bias in such interactions, asking, “Would you ever ask a male actor about his weight?”
Visibly upset, Gouri told the reporter, “You are objectifying a female actor. This is not journalism you are a disgrace to your profession.”
The video of the exchange quickly went viral, earning widespread praise for Gouri’s composure and assertiveness. Singer Chinmayi Sripada lauded her courage, writing on X, “Gouri did an amazing job. The moment you call out a disrespectful and unnecessary question, there’s shouting and pushback. So proud that someone so young stood her ground.”
Netizens also criticised the silence of Gouri’s co-star and director at the event. Responding later, Aditya Madhavan apologised, saying, “My silence didn’t mean I approve of body shaming anyone. I froze because it caught me off guard it’s my debut. I wish I’d stepped in sooner. Everyone deserves respect.”
The film Others, starring Gouri Kishan and Aditya Madhavan, is set to release in theatres on November 7.
