Body shaming is a prevalent but damaging phenomenon in Indian society. The terms "mota" (fat), "tinga" (short), "kaalu" (dark-complexioned), "chhota" (short), "lamba" (tall), and "patla" (thin) are used freely without realizing their emotional effect on a person. As a psychiatrist I know that such words have a profound impact on one's self-worth, making them anxious, depressed, and develop eating disorders. Body shaming, however, is not just done based on size or skin color; people with disabilities or mental disabilities are also targeted with abusive language that excludes them.

In India, words such as "handicapped," "crippled," "deformed," "lame," "blind," "dumb," and "retarded" are used to refer to individuals with disabilities in a mocking or condescending manner. This is what feeds the social stigma and causes emotional trauma to individuals suffering from these conditions.

Body Shaming Words and Their Psychological Influence

"Mota" (Fat)

Being referred to as "mota" can result in body dysmorphia and eating disorders. In a culture where thinness is valued, the term makes one internalize the idea that their value is attached to body size, resulting in poor mental health.

"Tinga" (Small)         

This term usually denotes a person who is regarded as weak or petite. It is particularly destructive in a society where masculinity is related to strength, which makes men feel inferior and apprehensive.

"Kaalu" (Dark-skinned)

The fixation with fair skin in India is unhealthy, and being referred to as "kaalu" usually makes people with darker skin complexions feel inferior. It can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and a need to change to conform to unrealistic beauty norms.

"Sukha/Haddi" (Thin)

Being labeled as "Sukha/Haddi" can cause such people to engage in unhealthy dieting habits and anxiety, particularly for those who are thin but are made to feel as though they are inadequate because they do not match societal ideals of body size.

Body Shaming of People with Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities are subject to distinctive types of body shaming. Names such as "handicapped" or "crippled" are used to reduce their personality to a term. "Lame" is applied to individuals with mobility impairment, while "blind" or "dumb" is applied to individuals with visual or speech impairment. Such terms ostracize people and lead to shame, discouraging social integration.

Psychological Impact of Disability Shaming:

As I am a psychiatrist in bhopal, many people come to me complaining about body shaming acts that destroy their confidence. Constant use of derogatory terms can result in depression, low self-esteem, and withdrawal from social interactions. Such persons feel invisible or powerless, perpetuating social stereotypes and acting as a barrier to participation in life.

Indian Laws and Self-Respect

Despite the psychological harm of body shaming, Indian laws remain largely insufficient in protecting individuals from such verbal abuse. The Indian Penal Code (Section 294) criminalizes offensive speech, but body shaming isn't specifically addressed. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD), 2016 does provide protections, but many are unaware of these rights.

Although the law provides some relief, cultural lack of awareness regarding body shaming and disability stigma continues to exist, so it is crucial to create awareness and empathy to safeguard self-respect and dignity. Help is available, Click the link to contact us at our clinic at bhopal