In a candid revelation, Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor recently spoke out about feeling sexualised by the media at a tender age of 12-13. The 25-year-old, known for her roles in films like “Dhadak” and “Roohi”, recounted an incident from her adolescence where her pictures circulated online in a manner that made her uncomfortable.
During a conversation with director Karan Johar on the official YouTube channel of Dharma Productions, Kapoor shared her experience of attending an event with her parents, veteran actors Sridevi and Boney Kapoor. She recounted how pictures of her from the event ended up on what appeared to be a pornographic website, leaving her feeling exposed and vulnerable.
“It is a very weird thing to navigate,” Kapoor expressed, reflecting on the challenges of being a young celebrity in the age of social media. “I found pictures of me in what seemed like a pornographic site and boys in my school were like looking at it and laughing.”
The incident left a lasting impact on Kapoor, who admitted to feeling apologetic about her background and struggling to overcome the stigma associated with being a public figure. “There is a sort of character assassination that a girl faces when she dresses in a way that makes it seem like she is comfortable with her sexuality,” she added, highlighting the complexities young women in the entertainment industry often face.
Kapoor’s revelation sheds light on the broader issue of media scrutiny and objectification faced by young celebrities, especially women, in the film industry. The pressure to conform to certain standards of beauty and behavior can take a toll on their mental health and self-esteem, prompting a necessary conversation about consent and respect in the public eye.
In her upcoming film, “Mr and Mrs Mahi”, Kapoor portrays the role of a doctor with a passion for cricket. Directed by Sharan Sharma and co-starring Rajkummar Rao, the sports drama is set to hit theaters on May 31. Despite her personal struggles with media scrutiny, Kapoor continues to pursue her passion for acting, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.
As Kapoor bravely shares her story, her words serve as a reminder of the importance of empowering young celebrities to speak out against objectification and harassment in the industry. By fostering a culture of respect and accountability, Bollywood can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for its stars.
