Actor Gouri Kishan, who is currently promoting her latest film, Others, recently called out a reporter for making a body-shaming remark during a press interaction. When questioned about her weight, the 96 actor firmly dismissed it as “highly disrespectful”, “unnecessary”, and “stupid”. Despite the reporter’s repeated attempts to justify the question, Gouri stood her ground, leading to a heated exchange at the event.
Now, even as several celebrities have called out the YouTuber, identified as RS Karthik, and his question, the Chennai Press club issued a press note condemning his question.
The note read, "The Chennai Press Club strongly condemns the behaviour of a YouTuber who posed an inappropriate question to actress Gouri Kishan regarding her body weight during the press meet of the film “Others.”
Raising questions aimed at mocking or humiliating a woman artist over her physical appearance, especially in a professional forum meant to discuss a film, is highly unethical, indecent, and condemnable. Despite Gouri Kishan clearly expressing her discomfort and objection, the YouTuber continued to justify his remarks and engaged in a heated argument with her.
The Chennai Press Club strongly denounces such behaviour and urges fellow journalists to call out and question individuals who conduct themselves in a sexist or disrespectful manner.
Furthermore, the Chennai Press Club appreciates actress Gouri Kishan for assertively and courageously expressing her views, even in the face of collective opposition during the press meet."
Sharing this press release on Instagram, Gouri Kishan wrote, "Thank you, Chennai Press Club. To hear this directly is a testament to standing up for what’s right and maintaining the integrity of the press & media. Thank you for all the support to the press and to all of you." (sic)
Gouri stars opposite debutant Aditya Madhavan in Others, a medical thriller helmed by Abin Hariharan, which is currently playing in theatres. The rest of the star cast includes Anju Kurian, Muniskanth, Harish Perady, Mala Parvathy, Jagan, and R Sundarrajan. While Gouri plays a doctor in the film, Aditya stars as a cop.
Produced by Murali of Grand Pictures banner and co-produced by Kartik G and Adhiraj Purushothaman, Others has composer Ghibran Vaibodha, cinematographer Aravinnd Singh, editor Ramar, art director Uma Shankar, and stunt director Phantom Pradeep.