‘Let's Use This Moment Instead To Move Forward…’: Gouri Kishan Issues Press Note To Clarify Her Stand
At a recent press conference in Chennai for her new film 'Others,' actor Gouri Kishan had found herself fielding a question that had nothing to do with her performance
In a dignified response to social media chatter and the controversy that followed, actor Gouri Kishan has come back with a press note this morning, explaining her stand.
At a recent press conference in Chennai for her new film Others, actor Gouri Kishan had found herself fielding a question that had nothing to do with her performance. When a journalist asked her co-star Aditya Madhavan if it was “difficult to lift her because of her weight,” Gouri intervened, calling out the remark as “irrelevant and disrespectful.”
In a press note, she wrote, “I wish I had been asked questions about the film-the work I was there for. I cannot help but wonder if they would ask a male actor the same, in the same aggressive tone. am grateful for being able to stand my ground in a difficult situation, it was important not only for myself but for anyone who has faced the same. This is not new but still prevalent-normalising body shaming in jest, while perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards. I hope this will be a reminder to anyone who has felt this way that we are allowed to speak up.”
But instead of attacking the individual, she also used the note to remind everyone that it was unfair to be targeting the individual. She said, “I also want to be clear — this is not an invitation to target or harass the individual involved. Let's use this moment instead to move forward with greater empathy, sensitivity, and respect on all sides.”
This, despite the journalist in question refusing to apologise to Gouri for his sexist question. In his press conference, he went on to state that Gouri's “outburst was an attention seeking ploy for their movie’s release.” He had also reiterated how he had been working as a journalist for 32 years and that he had been respected by many stars for the quality of his questions.
The Chennai Press Club released a statement condemning the incident, clarifying that the individual was a “YouTuber” and not a journalist. “Mocking a woman over her physical appearance during a professional forum is unethical and indecent,” the statement read, while applauding Gouri for her composure. The South Indian Artistes’ Association also issued a statement of solidarity, pledging to prevent such incidents in the future.
Others released in theatres on November 7, with her next film Love Insurance Kompany set for December 18.