Ira Khan Opens Up on Body Image Struggles: ‘Scarier Than Talking About Depression’
New Delhi: Ira Khan, daughter of Bollywood actor Aamir Khan, has once again chosen openness over silence, sharing a deeply personal account of her long-standing struggle with body image, self-perception, and self-worth. In a candid Instagram post and accompanying video, Ira revealed that she has been grappling with how she views her body since 2020 — a subject she admits feels even more frightening to speak about than her previously disclosed battle with depression.
Known for her honesty around mental health, Ira’s latest disclosure adds another layer to her ongoing effort to normalise difficult conversations, particularly those surrounding body image, food, and confidence — issues that often remain unspoken despite affecting millions.
‘Oscillating Between Unfit, Overweight and Obese’
In her post, Ira openly acknowledged what she called “the elephant in the room,” writing that she has spent the last few years oscillating between feeling unfit, overweight, and obese. She clarified that while she does not have a diagnosed eating disorder and does not claim expert authority, she felt compelled to share her experiences after noticing a small but meaningful shift in her mindset.
“Yes, I’m fat. Been oscillating between thinking I’m fat/unfit, becoming overweight and being obese since 2020,” Ira wrote. “There’s a lot to be said about it. Definitely things I still need to figure out. But I feel at least a small shift for the better, so I’ve decided to start talking about it.”
She further admitted that discussing body image feels significantly more intimidating than talking about depression — a subject she has previously addressed in public with greater clarity and confidence.
Why This Conversation Feels ‘Scarier’ Than Depression
In the video shared alongside her post, Ira spoke directly to the camera, explaining that body image struggles have affected multiple aspects of her life — including her confidence, sense of self-worth, work, friendships, and her relationship with husband Nupur Shikhare.
“I am obese for my age and height,” she said, addressing her condition factually and without euphemism. She added that her relationship with food and her body has been complicated for years, often influencing how present she is in daily life.
Unlike depression, which she has previously discussed in detail, Ira admitted she feels less equipped and less confident navigating conversations around weight and body image. “This feels a little scary,” she said, noting that the topic comes with heavier judgment and harsher scrutiny, particularly in the public domain.
Not Seeking Validation, But Normalisation
Ira was careful to clarify her intent. She emphasised that her goal is not validation, sympathy, or praise, but rather to start an honest conversation — one that allows space for complexity and imperfection.
“I don’t have a diagnosed eating disorder, and I’m also not an expert. Just sharing my experiences,” she wrote. She also issued a warning to viewers about online reactions, advising caution when engaging with the comment section.
“Venture into the comment section at your own risk. I know I will be staying far away from it,” she added.
Her decision to distance herself from online commentary reflects an awareness of the often harsh digital discourse surrounding body image — especially for public figures.
A Continuation of Her Mental Health Advocacy
This is not the first time Ira Khan has spoken openly about mental health. In earlier interviews and social media posts, she revealed her long struggle with clinical depression, including the guilt she felt for experiencing mental health challenges despite coming from a privileged background.
At the time, her openness was widely praised for breaking stereotypes around wealth, privilege, and mental illness. Her latest disclosure continues that pattern of vulnerability, reinforcing her belief that difficult conversations — however uncomfortable — are essential.
Mental health professionals have long pointed out that body image issues and depression often intersect, with negative self-perception playing a significant role in emotional well-being. Ira’s reflections echo this reality, highlighting how deeply personal struggles can coexist with outward stability.
Public Figures and the Burden of Visibility
Ira’s post also sheds light on the unique pressure faced by individuals in the public eye. Constant scrutiny, comparisons, and unsolicited opinions often amplify body image concerns, making honest conversations even more daunting.
By choosing to speak publicly, Ira places herself in a vulnerable position — one she acknowledges openly. Yet, she also signals that silence can be more damaging than discomfort, especially when it prevents self-understanding and healing.
A Conversation Still Unfolding
Ira concluded her post by stating that this series of reflections is as much for herself as it is for others. She hopes to unpack her thoughts gradually, understanding that healing is not linear and that clarity does not arrive all at once.
Her message resonates beyond celebrity culture, touching on universal experiences of insecurity, self-judgment, and the struggle to feel at ease in one’s own body.
Our Thoughts
Ira Khan’s honesty underscores a critical truth — conversations around body image remain deeply stigmatised, even more so than mental health in some spaces. Her willingness to speak without packaging her experience into inspiration or expertise offers a refreshing, human perspective. In an era driven by curated perfection, such vulnerability has the power to create safer spaces for dialogue, self-reflection, and gradual healing.