'She was huge but more successful ...' Ram Kapoor gets slammed for his comment on this iconic former TV star

Time of India

05-07-2025

A previously recorded conversation featuring actor
Ram Kapoor
, now 51, has resurfaced online, stirring considerable discourse across social media platforms. The renewed interest isn't rooted in Kapoor's reflections on his personal life or career struggles, but rather in a specific section of his interview with
Humans of Bombay
, recently reposted by
Brut India
.
In the segment, Kapoor discusses his thoughts on
body image issues
within the entertainment world and highlights the challenges faced by those who do not fit the industry's conventional standards of appearance. However, it was his remarks involving his former
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi
co-star
Smriti Irani
, 49, that attracted widespread criticism and debate.
Intent vs. Impact: Kapoor's Take on Body Image
The conversation begins with Kapoor discussing how physical appearance can be a significant barrier to success, particularly for those who do not conform to certain societal ideals. Speaking from experience, he comments on the limited opportunities available to individuals who are overweight, emphasizing how difficult it is for them to secure major roles in television or film.
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However, the discussion takes an unexpected turn when he uses Smriti Irani as an example to underscore his point. Kapoor states that Irani, who worked alongside him during the early 2000s in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, had a similar body type to his and had arguably achieved more success during that time. He attributes her physical transformation over the show's eight-year duration to character demands and logical progression in the storyline, as Irani's role evolved from a young wife to a grandmother due to multiple generational leaps in the plot.
Reflection on Irani's Journey
Kapoor goes on to describe how Irani allowed her physical appearance to change in alignment with the growth of her character, calling it a deliberate decision rather than a personal oversight. According to him, she embraced the natural aging and physical development that came with portraying a woman progressing through various life stages on screen. He believes that had she remained in the television industry, she might have surpassed him in popularity and prominence. He also points out that her exit from acting and shift to politics marked a new and successful chapter in her professional life.
Additionally, Kapoor mentions that the two had openly discussed this topic in the past, suggesting that Irani never shied away from the role's physical demands and was always committed to the authenticity of her portrayal.
Social Media Reacts Strongly
Despite what appeared to be a tone of admiration, many online users found Kapoor's remarks problematic. Critics argued that his commentary, though possibly meant as praise, ended up focusing too heavily on Irani's weight and physical transformation. Numerous viewers felt that his statements reduced her multifaceted career to superficial observations about her size, which many believed bordered on body-shaming.
One netizen highlighted the fact that Irani continued acting through her pregnancies, a testament to her dedication and professionalism. Others expressed frustration that conversations about female actors often circle back to discussions about their physical appearance, especially in comparison with male counterparts. Some even questioned Kapoor's credibility in making such observations, pointing out that Irani's performances carried emotional weight and character complexity that went beyond physical dimensions.
Kapoor's Health Journey and Personal Transformation
Outside of the controversy, Kapoor has recently opened up about his own battles with
health and fitness
. In a candid conversation with comedians Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa on their podcast, the Bade Achche Lagte Hain actor revisited a dark period in his life when his weight had peaked at 140 kilograms.
He recalled the dire warning he received from his doctor during the filming of Neeyat in Scotland, where he was required to administer insulin shots three times a day due to critically high blood sugar levels. The situation became a turning point when his physician gave him a stark choice: either implement drastic changes to his lifestyle or face life-threatening consequences. The severity of the warning served as a wake-up call.
The Simplicity Behind His Weight Loss Success
Kapoor eventually shed 55 kilograms by adhering to a disciplined, structured routine based on three uncomplicated rules:
Two Meals a Day: He restricted his eating to just two meals, one late in the morning around 10:30 a.m. and another in the early evening by 6:30 p.m. This approach follows the principles of intermittent fasting, allowing extended periods for the body to burn stored fat.
No Snacking: Outside of his two primary meals, Kapoor completely eliminated snacking. While he continued to consume water, tea, and coffee, he avoided any solid food in between, which helped him create a consistent calorie deficit and prevent impulsive eating.
No Food After 6:30 PM: Regardless of social gatherings or events, he strictly avoided eating beyond his 6:30 p.m. cut-off. This routine aligns with the idea of early time-restricted eating, which is thought to optimize digestion and metabolic efficiency.