'Beauty isn't in the eye of the beholder': Taapsee Pannu

In an exclusive conversation with Bazaar India, Taapsee Pannu, actor and brand ambassador of Swiss Beauty, opens up about coming into her own, resisting unrealistic beauty standards, and more.

Harper’s Bazaar: Taapsee, what, according to you, does it mean to be beautiful?

Taapsee Pannu: “Being beautiful is all about embracing your individuality, and feeling confident in your own skin. It’s about breaking free from society’s rigid beauty standards and accepting and celebrating yourself for who you are. Beauty isn’t confined to one's physical appearance; quit trying to fit into predefined moulds and start believing in your worth. Beauty isn’t in the eye of the beholder, rather, it begins with yourself.”

HB: And has your definition of beauty evolved over the years?

TP: “I’m aware I don’t meet the conventional standards of beauty, and back in the day, I tried to change myself...but all my efforts went in vain. Today, I understand that true beauty lies in loving yourself, unconditionally and unapologetically. We, as a society, must put an end to shaming...it’s the need of the hour.”

HB: Being a part of the film industry, do you ever feel pressured to look a certain way?

TP: “The need to conform to a pre-determined standard of beauty is real in my line of work...I do not possess the typical features of an actor—doe eyes, an elegant, small nose, and so on. Even my hair is curly, while the rest of the lot have silky, smooth locks. In fact, I underwent chemical hair treatments to change my appearance, but it left me with nothing but limp ends and hair fall. Today, I have accepted myself.”

HB: 'Beauty isn't in the eye of the beholder': Taapsee Pannu You have essayed the roles of fierce, independent women on-screen. Did any of your characters resonate with you? 

TP: “I refuse to portray helpless, damsel-in-distress women on-screen to please a handful of critics. Men are heroes in every film, and that has never been a problem. But now that I’m essaying the roles of women with independent, strong minds, it’s suddenly becoming a stereotype. After Pink (2016), people saw me differently, and I began getting offered parts that showcased inherent strength and vulnerability.  Truth be told, I enjoy playing unconventional, grey characters that work to challenge societal notions about women...they have taught me resilience and determination.”

HB: In moments of doubt, what gives you courage? 

TP: “Back in the day, losing a film would really get to me. It is frustrating when you don’t land a role either because the lead actor doesn’t want you, or due to a limited budget. During such phases, I take refuge in my sister. She is my guiding light, and her presence lends me endless courage to deal with trying times.” 

HB: Tell us how you take care of your curly hair...

TP: “Besides using products that are ideal for my hair type, I oil my hair regularly and indulge in deep conditioning.”

HB: And your favourite products from Swiss Beauty are...

TP: “I absolutely love Swiss Beauty’s super-pigmented lipsticks...The product range features gorgeous red, pink, and nude shades, with something in store for every skin tone. Plus, the texture is so rich and smooth.”

HB: Lastly, how have you grown as an actor, and as a person, over the last couple of years?

TP: “Professionally, I have noticed a shift in the kind of work coming my way...film producers have faith in me and my craft. As for personal growth, I’ve become more tolerant, and have learned to become less impulsive and sensitive. I am becoming more grounded.”