Anjali Anand on Body-Shaming in Dhamaal 4: 'Society Must Change First'

Actress Anjali Anand, who plays the female lead in the upcoming film Dhamaal 4 opposite Riteish Deshmukh, has addressed the criticism surrounding the fat-shaming jokes aimed at her character in the film's trailer. In a recent interview, Anand explained her decision to accept the role despite being aware of the stereotypical portrayal.

Anand, who began her career on OTT and television, faced stigma related to her height and weight even after her author-backed role as Ranveer Singh's sister in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani. She shared that trolls have made derogatory comments about her appearance, such as questioning why the industry would cast her as a heroine.

'People often ask me how I can be in a film like this when I stand against making fun of others,' Anand said. 'But this is society. People still mock me even after I have proven myself. Until society changes, scripts won't change.'

Anand acknowledged that she could have refused the role, but believes that if she did not play it, someone else would. 'If there is a fat girl part, I will play it because I know how to do it without victimizing the character,' she explained. Her character, Paro, is portrayed as a strong woman, and the jokes are part of the film's comedic narrative.

The actress expressed hope that as she takes on larger roles, writers and directors will break away from such stereotypes. 'I will make sure I am part of big films so I become big enough for people to write different roles for me,' she said. 'But it's a cycle. If I don't get films, people won't know I exist. And these are the kind of films I'm getting because that is my reality.'

Anand dismissed the idea that she could be cast in a film like Alpha, saying, 'I don't look like an Alpha. I will get films based on how I look. This will continue until people's thinking changes.'

Despite the criticism, Anand remains grateful for the opportunity and praised her co-stars, including Riteish Deshmukh, Ajay Devgn, and Arshad Warsi. She expressed hope that Dhamaal 4 will prove her ability to draw audiences to theaters.