Swara Bhasker Responds to Body Shaming on Reality Show Rise and Fall

Swara Bhasker, an Indian actress and participant on the reality show Rise and Fall, made headlines recently for confronting online trolls who have shamed her for her post-pregnancy weight. The show, which launched its second season, is hosted by former cricketer Virender Sehwag. In a striking display, Bhasker donned a purple saree paired with a blouse emblazoned with 'moti', which translates to 'fat'. This choice was a direct response to the relentless scrutiny she has faced over the past three years regarding her body after giving birth.

During her appearance, she expressed the emotional toll of being targeted on social media, stating, "My daughter is three years old now. For three years now, strangers who I don’t know have trolled me on social media and elsewhere." She candidly shared the derogatory names she has been labelled with, such as 'buffalo', 'cow', 'hippo', and 'elephant'. In her defiant response, she declared, "I accept your terminology and own it now."

Swara Bhasker’s journey through the challenges of motherhood and societal pressures on body image resonates deeply with many women. She recalled her distressing experience when she shared a throwback photo from 2018, receiving harsh comments about her physical transformation post-childbirth. In her social media response, she asserted, "The kind of rage and anger I’ve encountered...is bizarre! Women’s bodies have more purpose than sexualisation and being hangers for glamour."

Furthermore, she reflected on her decision not to conform to societal expectations of rapidly losing weight, saying, "After I had a baby, I chose NOT TO BOUNCE BACK. Because once you have a baby—there’s no back—you are a parent for the rest of your life. Life changes fundamentally, and that’s okay."

Swara Bhasker’s actions on Rise and Fall signal a broader conversation about acceptance and empowerment among women regarding body image. The show also features a diverse group of contestants, all showcasing unique stories and experiences. The current season is available for streaming on Prime Video and MX Player, with new episodes releasing daily at noon.

As she challenges societal norms, Bhasker continues to advocate for self-acceptance and resilience, encouraging others to embrace their identities without fear of judgment.