Delnaaz Irani Says Learn to Accept Yourself Over Beauty Norms

Mumbai, October 25: Delnaaz Irani has urged women to accept themselves rather than chase unrealistic beauty ideals, a message she says is especially relevant in the film and television world.

The actress, who is best known for 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', said that women in Bollywood are frequently expected to have a particular skin type and to look a certain way. She admitted that she occasionally feels this pressure too, but said she prefers to focus on enjoying life.

'Yes, generally there is pressure,' she told IANS. 'Sometimes I feel it as well. But then I tell myself to keep going, enjoy my food and my life.'

Delnaaz, who has recently entered her 54s, explained that physical, mental and emotional changes are part of growing older. Personally, she said, she does not feel overwhelmed by pressure. Otherwise, she suggested, she might be constantly trying to lose weight and worrying about minor things.

'My face has laugh lines, and I know that comes with age,' she said. 'Women go through many physical, mental and emotional changes, and you must learn to accept yourself.'

She also pointed out that society's thinking and expectations have evolved. Today, people feel pressure in many areas of life, including how they look, the decisions they make and how they present themselves to others.

'Times have changed,' she said. 'There is pressure everywhere now. Our generation was different and much simpler. We wore what our mothers gave us and ate what was served. There were not so many questions. Today everything is discussed and challenged.'

According to Delnaaz, ageing should not mean stopping the enjoyment of life. She believes women should feel comfortable in their own skin instead of comparing themselves with unrealistic expectations.

'Of course, I also think about my looks sometimes, but I do not want to make them the centre of my life,' she added. 'I believe in enjoying life, staying happy and not putting unnecessary pressure on myself.'

Delnaaz Irani is currently seen in the Netflix series 'Chumbak'. She has built a long career in television and digital entertainment and is known for shows such as 'Yes Boss', 'Ek Mahal Ho Sapnon Ka', 'Son Pari', 'Kya Hua Tera Vaada', 'Kahta Hai Dil Jee Le Zara', 'Jamai Raja', 'Har Mushkil Ka Hal Akbar Birbal', 'Partners', 'Ek Deewana Tha', 'Kabhi Kabhi Ittefaq Se' and 'Mannat: Har Khushi Paane Ki'.