Actress Gauri Kishan publicly confronted a journalist for a body shaming remark during a promotional event. Her courageous stand has ignited a significant debate within the South Indian film industry. The incident highlighted issues of journalistic ethics and respect for female artists.
The event was for her Tamil film “Adhieeras.” A journalist questioned her co-star, Aditya Madhavan, about the difficulty of lifting Kishan in a film scene. The question implicitly referenced Kishan’s weight.
Kishan promptly interrupted the question. She asked, “What does my weight have to do with you?” She emphasized that the query was irrelevant to her acting or the film itself.
Kishan observed that most journalists present were male. When she challenged the question, she was advised to remain silent.
She later reflected on the incident, stating she was the only woman there and attempts were made to silence her. “Every woman’s body is different, but one’s physique does not define their talent,” Kishan affirmed.
The journalist then tried to dismiss the comment as a lighthearted joke. Kishan immediately retorted, “I didn’t find it funny. Stop normalizing body shaming.”
The confrontation extended for 12 to 13 minutes. Kishan noted that no one inquired about her character or preparation; instead, the focus remained on her weight. She directly challenged the journalist, asking, “Would you ask a male actor such a question?”
Following the widely reported incident, several prominent figures from the Tamil film industry voiced their support for Gauri Kishan.
Director Pa. Ranjith expressed his dismay on social media. He wrote, “It’s shameful that female artists still face such demeaning questions. Gauri, salute to you.”
Actress and politician Khushbu Sundar criticized the declining standards of journalism. She stated that a woman’s weight is personal and journalists should understand mutual respect. She questioned if they would like similar questions directed at women in their own families.
Kavin, Gauri Kishan’s co-star in “Adhieeras,” also offered encouragement. He posted, “Inside and out, you are beautiful and inspiring Gauri. Always be like this.”
A video of Kishan’s response quickly spread across social media platforms. Many users applauded her bravery for speaking out against the inappropriate questioning.
While some journalists downplayed the incident as an overreaction, the majority of users supported Kishan’s decision to address the body shaming directly. The debate continues regarding appropriate conduct in press interactions.
“Adhieeras” is a Tamil medical crime thriller that premiered on November 7, 2025. Aditya Madhavan plays a police officer, and Gauri Kishan stars as a doctor. Abin Hariharan directed the film, produced under the Grand Pictures banner.