The television actress opened up about living with thyroid issues after pregnancy, urging people to choose kindness instead of judging someone’s appearance online.
Television actress Kishwer Merchant has spoken out against online body-shaming after facing criticism about her weight on social media. The actor, known for her candid personality, responded with an emotional yet firm message, saying that motherhood and health challenges should never become reasons for public judgment.
Speaking in a recent interview with Galatta India, Kishwer addressed comments about her appearance and explained that her weight gain is linked to thyroid issues that developed during pregnancy.
Kishwer Merchant responds to trolls
Recalling a recent experience, Kishwer said she came across a social media post claiming she had gained weight.
Responding to the criticism, she said:
“Yes, I’ve gained weight. So what?”
The actress explained that she developed thyroid-related health issues during her pregnancy, making weight loss significantly more challenging.
“I got thyroid when I got pregnant. It is very difficult to lose weight with thyroid, so obviously you don’t know this thing; I’m the one who’s struggling with this.”
Actress urges people to stop commenting on others’ bodies
While discussing the impact of body-shaming, Kishwer became emotional and stressed that people should avoid making assumptions about someone’s health based solely on their appearance.
She said online users should practice empathy instead of leaving hurtful comments.
“I just feel it’s very bad behaviour, and I don’t think people should do that.”
The actress also questioned why strangers feel entitled to judge celebrities.
“When my parents, my husband, and my kid are not saying anything to me, then who are you to question me about putting on weight? Just because we are celebrities doesn’t mean people have bought us and can target us.”
Motherhood and health journey
Kishwer welcomed her son in 2021 and has previously spoken openly about the physical changes that followed pregnancy.
In an earlier social media post, she revealed that although she had been exercising consistently for over a year, her weight remained higher than before pregnancy due to her health condition.
She shared that:
- Before pregnancy, she weighed 68 kg.
- After pregnancy and more than a year of workouts, she weighed 72 kg.
- Despite the weight difference, she felt healthier and stronger.
In that post, she wrote:
“I don’t care, because I am super fit! I feel active and good all day.”
A broader conversation about body positivity
Kishwer’s remarks have reignited discussions around body positivity, postpartum health, and the unrealistic beauty standards often imposed on women—particularly those in the public eye.
Medical experts note that thyroid disorders can affect metabolism and make weight management more difficult, especially after pregnancy. Individual experiences vary, and recovery timelines differ from person to person.
By speaking openly about her experience, Kishwer has highlighted the importance of understanding health conditions before making judgments based on appearance.
IndyaStory Take
Kishwer Merchant’s response shifts the conversation beyond celebrity gossip to a broader issue of empathy and responsible online behavior. Her comments serve as a reminder that visible changes in a person’s body may reflect health challenges, life transitions, or personal circumstances that are not immediately apparent.
