Tamil Star Gouri Kishan Shuts Down Sexist Weight Query at ‘Others’ Press Meet, Sparks Industry Backlash

Actor Gouri Kishan earned thunderous applause for boldly rebuffing a reporter’s derogatory question about her weight at the promotional event for her latest film 'Others', turning a routine press conference into a powerful stand against body-shaming.

The awkward moment unfolded when a journalist asked debutant co-star Aditya Madhavan if lifting Gouri on set was “challenging” due to her “weight.” Cutting in sharply in Tamil, the 26-year-old star fired back: “My weight is my business. How is it linked to the movie? My body doesn’t determine my craft.”

As the questioner tried to defend himself, Gouri pressed on: “Women come in all shapes—stop making body-shaming normal. I’ve poured my soul into performance-driven roles. I don’t need anyone’s approval for how I look.” Even as publicists attempted to move on, she insisted, “I’m making a point, and you’re all trying to silence me.”

The clip exploded online, igniting fury across Kollywood. Filmmaker Pa Ranjith tweeted: “@Gourayy, respect. That female actors still get these crass questions proves Tamil cinema has miles to go.”

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Actor-politician Khushbu Sundar wrote: “A woman’s weight is nobody’s concern—least of all the hero’s. Shameful. Hats off to Gouri for not backing down.”

Co-star Kavin added: “Beautiful inside and out, and truly inspiring, Gouri.”

Aditya Madhavan, who faced online flak for staying silent in the moment, later apologised on X: “My freeze wasn’t agreement. It was a shock—this was my debut. I should’ve spoken up faster. No one deserves that. Respect is non-negotiable. Sorry again.”

The Chennai Press Club distanced itself from the incident, labelling the individual a “YouTuber” and stating: “We condemn the unethical humiliation of actress Gouri Kishan over her appearance at a professional film event. We salute her for courageously objecting despite pushback.”

The South Indian Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam) pledged action: “We stand with our sister and will take steps to prevent such incidents.”

Dismissing claims the remark was “just banter,” Gouri told reporters: “It wasn’t funny. It’s about dignity. Not one question about my role or prep—just my body. Would you ask a male actor the same?”