By Anil Merani: The trolling of female actors like Chum Darang for their physical features is not just a personal attack; it reflects a deep systemic injustice in our society. The rigid and often unattainable beauty standards that prioritize a specific ‘ideal’ body type, skin tone, or facial features are perpetuated by media, pop culture, and historical biases. This narrow definition of attractiveness marginalizes those who do not fit the mold. Such attacks are not merely personal; they are systemic, pointing to a culture that frequently equates worth with appearance, especially for women in the public eye.
Chum Darang, known for her work in films and participation in reality shows, has faced online harassment targeting her looks—a situation that is all too common for women in the entertainment industry. Social media platforms like X amplify this kind of trolling, where anonymity and group dynamics can escalate attacks into aggressive behavior. The situation is further complicated when young women, who are themselves navigating societal pressures, engage in or endorse these attacks. This cycle reveals how internalized misogyny and harmful beauty standards lead women to police each other, reinforcing destructive norms rather than challenging them.
Embracing diversity means recognizing that beauty and value come in countless forms—different body shapes, skin tones, facial features, and expressions of identity. This is not merely about tolerance; it is about actively celebrating what makes each person unique. With its global reach, the entertainment industry has a responsibility to showcase diverse representations, yet it often falls short by casting women who fit conventional molds while sidelining others. When actors like Chum Darang are trolled, it sends a message that only specific looks are “acceptable,” discouraging individuality and authenticity.
The involvement of young women in these attacks is particularly disheartening, as it shows how deeply ingrained these standards are. Socialized to value appearance over character or talent, some young women may feel compelled to criticize others to align with perceived norms or gain social capital. This behavior is often more about insecurity or a desire for conformity than malice, but the impact is no less damaging. It creates a toxic environment where women are pitted against one another, distracting from the real issue: a culture that profits by making people feel inadequate.
Breaking this cycle requires collective action. Media platforms can amplify diverse voices and challenge stereotypes through inclusive casting and storytelling. Individuals can counter trolling by calling out harmful comments and supporting those targeted, like Chum Darang. However, it is not just about calling out the trolls. Education and open conversations about beauty standards, especially among younger generations, can foster empathy and critical thinking. On platforms like X, users have occasionally countered such trolling with hashtags or threads celebrating diversity, though these efforts need wider support. We must all learn to look beyond appearances and think critically about the messages we receive.
Ultimately, accepting diversity isn’t just about stopping hate; it’s about redefining what society values. Talent, resilience, and authenticity—like those demonstrated by Chum Darang—should matter more than conforming to outdated ideals. By uplifting diverse representations and rejecting toxic criticism, we can create a culture where everyone feels seen and valued for who they are, not merely for how they look.
