Actress and talk show host Neha Dhupia opened up about the challenges she faced after announcing her pregnancy, revealing how she lost a project as a result. Dhupia, who welcomed her daughter Mehr with husband Angad Bedi in November 2018 and later announced the arrival of their second child, Guriq, in October 2021, shared her experience during a conversation with Zoom.
Though she didn’t name the show or its makers, Dhupia recounted how she was let go from a project after informing them of her pregnancy, only to discover that the show wouldn’t be filming for the next 8 months anyway. She recalled feeling dismissed when she revealed her pregnancy, with the response being a flat “we don’t want to work with you.”
In addition to the professional setback, Dhupia also addressed the issue of body image in the entertainment industry, mentioning how she faced fat-shaming from certain sections of the media after her pregnancies. She highlighted the unrealistic standards imposed on women, emphasizing the pressure to conform to a certain mold.
Reflecting on her journey in the industry, Dhupia acknowledged the strides towards inclusivity but noted that challenges persist. She spoke candidly about being judged for her appearance, recounting instances where she was criticized for having a “sharp face” and not conforming to certain body standards.
Despite the setbacks, Dhupia expressed optimism about the industry’s evolution towards greater diversity and inclusivity in casting. She emphasized the importance of actors being able to find roles that resonate with them, regardless of their appearance.
Neha Dhupia’s openness about her experiences sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by women in the entertainment industry, from pregnancy discrimination to body image pressures. Her resilience serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for inclusivity and acceptance in all aspects of the industry.