Evolving Conversation: Maanvi Gagroo Advocates for Genuine Diversity in Entertainment Industry

Mumbai (NDTV)--Actress Maanvi Gagroo, known for her latest series Half Love Half Arranged Season 2, shed light on the evolving conversation around body image in the entertainment industry during an exclusive interview with NDTV's Hardika Gupta.

Gagroo shared that she finds it rewarding to see issues like mental health and body positivity gaining traction. "The conversation around body image is getting more open," she stated. "It's commendable that we're witnessing a rise in depicting people of various shapes, sizes, and appearances on screen."

However, Gagroo also pointed out that the industry remains primarily driven by business objectives. "We must acknowledge that the entertainment industry operates as a business. To reap benefits from diversity and representation, they'll adapt; if it doesn't generate revenue, they won't," she noted.

What's missing in this apparent trend of 'diversity' is the depth, Gagroo cautioned: "Often, our portrayal is merely ticking boxes on physical traits like weight, skin color or height. We must delve beyond these superficial differences and allow characters to flourish without being bound by their appearance unless it significantly contributes to the narrative."

The actress cited a few of her projects where physical features became integral themes, like in Ujda Chaman or Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan. These parts highlighted her ability to transcend her appearance and be seen beyond that label.

"It can be disheartening that talent is often evaluated on looks rather than talent," Gagroo acknowledged. Yet, she remains optimistic. "We've made significant strides toward inclusivity over the years. Although considerable work remains, I remain hopeful for a future where individuals are recognized based on their expertise and not limited by societal expectations of physical appearance."

When queried about the significance of genuine diversity in representation, Gagroo emphasized that seeing past these surface-level markers is imperative. "We need to focus on giving characters a life beyond their physical description unless it plays an essential role in our storytelling," she stated.