How Did Gargi Kundu Overcome Harsh Comments on Her Skin and Identity?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Resilience in the face of criticism can lead to personal growth.
- Embracing one's identity and uniqueness is crucial.
- Artistic backgrounds can shape successful careers in entertainment.
- The impact of social media on personal branding is significant.
- Reality television can offer unique platforms for emerging talent.
Mumbai, Aug 1 (NationPress) Actress and content creator Gargi Kundu has bravely shared her experiences with severe criticism throughout her life. She disclosed that she was frequently ridiculed for her skin tone, appearance, and identity. In an open conversation, she expressed how these events influenced her journey and bolstered her determination. Known for her role in the series “Society” on Jio Hotstar, Gargi stated, “I was mocked for my looks every day. People called me ‘behenji’, criticized my glasses for being too large, and even mocked my skin color. It was painful—but I refused to let it define me.”
“It felt as though I was being evaluated for merely being myself. I wear my glasses with pride. I cherish my skin. And I’m not here to conform to someone else’s standards,” she emphasized. The actress noted that her time inside the society house was also filled with challenges.
For those who may not know, Gargi Kundu began her artistic journey with classical training in Bharatanatyam and folk dance, engaging in theatre and Bollywood-style performances from a young age. This early involvement in the performing arts served as a foundation for her later endeavors across various creative platforms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gargi contributed as a medical professional, providing assistance while also turning to storytelling to convey the grief and uncertainty of that period. This marked a significant turning point as she began producing short, relatable videos online—many of which became viral sensations.
Her rising popularity on social media led to roles in Bengali television and films, ultimately leading to appearances in pan-Indian OTT content, including web series, music videos, and advertisements.
She made her reality television debut with the show “Society,” featuring 25 contestants competing in a tier-based format—Royals, Regulars, and Rags—facing daily challenges to earn the title of “Asli Baazigar.” Hosted by comedian Munawar Faruqui and co-hosted by Shreya Kalra, the show revolved around social dynamics, survival, and strategy.