An old interview clip of Mrunal Thakur resurfaced recently, sparking controversy over her comments about Bipasha Basu. In the throwback video, shot during a chat with her Kumkum Bhagya co-star Arjit Taneja, Mrunal brought up fitness preferences. When Arjit said he liked a toned partner, she quipped, “Go marry Bipasha then. Listen, I am far better than Bipasha,” referring to the actress’s “manly muscles.”
The remark, now viral, has drawn backlash online for seemingly putting down another woman. Social media users criticised Mrunal for body-shaming and undermining another actress’s physique.
Bipasha, known for championing fitness, appeared to respond indirectly. On her Instagram story, she wrote:
“Strong women lift each other up. Get those muscles, beautiful ladies… we should be strong. Muscles help you attain good physical and mental health forever! Bust the age-old thought process that women should not look strong or be physically strong!”
Although she did not name Mrunal, the timing and subject of the post seemed pointed. Bipasha’s words reinforced her long-standing belief that strength, both physical and mental, is empowering for women.
The online debate now extends beyond celebrity rivalry, touching on broader issues of body image, fitness stereotypes, and women supporting women. While some defend Mrunal’s comment as casual banter, many see it as an unnecessary comparison.
The incident has reignited conversations about how women in the entertainment industry are often pitted against each other—and the importance of breaking that cycle.