Let’s start with a question—Is being overweight truly a curse? Society certainly treats it as one. I’ve seen people spend their entire lives obsessing over weight loss, dieting, exercising, and chasing an arbitrary standard of beauty. But does beauty really come from being slim? Isn’t it more about having a kind heart, an intelligent mind, and confidence in oneself?
Yet, time and again, people face rejection—from friendships, careers, social circles, and even marriage proposals—simply because of their weight. The effort overweight individuals put into their health often goes unnoticed because society equates body size with intelligence and discipline. And honestly, I despise this word: “society.” What is it really for? To support each other or to tear people down for being different? The hypocrisy is staggering.
Yes, I am overweight. I have battled this since childhood, and yes, I love food. Does that make me unattractive? Probably, at least in the eyes of society. Even if I accept my body, the world refuses to let me. We spend fortunes on slimming treatments, avoid certain foods, struggle to find well-fitting clothes, and navigate daily judgment—yet none of this effort seems to matter. For overweight women, the world is especially unforgiving.
Look anywhere—TV, movies, advertisements. The narrative is the same: slim women find love, success, and happiness. Overweight women? They are either invisible or reduced to comic relief. Even in family gatherings, slim individuals wear fashionable outfits and indulge freely, while we monitor ourselves, both in dress and diet. The unspoken rule is clear—our presence is tolerated, but only if we are trying to change.
Yes, being overweight can lead to health issues, but so can many other lifestyle choices. And yet, why is it so hard for people to respect and accept us as we are? Are we less human? Less capable? The truth is, overweight individuals are often some of the most resilient, hardworking, and intelligent people. The constant struggle we endure requires strength that few can match.
I call this Societal Chauvinism—the deep-rooted bias against body diversity, particularly in India, where weight discrimination is almost as divisive as casteism. Even my own family suggests I move to the U.S., where, at least in some circles, body inclusivity is more accepted.
And then there are the so-called “plus-size” clothing stores. Why should we be segregated into special sections? Are designers so unimaginative that they can’t create inclusive fashion? Instead of forcing people to conform, isn’t it time we reshape our attitudes toward body weight?
This is more than a personal grievance—it’s a systemic issue. It’s time we stop treating weight as a moral failure and start acknowledging people for their character, talent, and perseverance. Society needs to evolve, and this conversation is long overdue.
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