"In the industry, you do get advantage if you look a certain way": Divyenndu on feeding the monster of beauty

In a recent interview with India Forums, actor Divyenndu spoke candidly about how beauty standards shape not just the film industry but Indian society at large. Referring to co-star Radhika Apte's character from 'Saali Mohabbat' that "beautiful things come to her," Divyenndu reflected on how appearance often decides opportunity, perception, and even destiny, long before talent gets a chance to speak.

Divyenndu didn't shy away from admitting that beauty does come with certain privileges. As he pointed out, the idea of beauty is deeply ingrained in the way Indian society functions.

"There is an advantage, right? We perceive beauty in a certain way, and that gives you an advantage. It's not just about our industry; it's how Indian society is made. From the moment a child is born, we talk about features and looks. As you grow up, you're told what you'll become. When it comes to marriage, if a girl is beautiful, she should get a certain kind of guy. If a boy thinks he's good-looking, he feels his wife should also be like that. The perception of beauty has reached a very strange place. At the same time, in the industry, too, people do get advantages. If you look a certain way, there are certain characters people take you for, or you are approached for those things. But it's flawed somewhere. We all know it has to do with social media, the filters we use, everything. And we are all, somewhere, responsible for it. We're all feeding this huge monster."

- Divyenndu

According to Divyenndu, cinema often mirrors society rather than correcting it. Looks can quietly decide what roles come your way and what stories people think you fit into. Social media has only amplified this obsession, creating a loop of unrealistic expectations, altered images, and constant comparison.

Saali Mohabbat And A Darker Human Lens

Divyenndu was last seen in Saali Mohabbat, directed by Tisca Chopra in her directorial debut. The film stars Radhika Apte, Divyenndu, and Anurag Kashyap, and is produced by Manish Malhotra's Stage5 and Jio Studios. It premiered at the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa and was later released directly on ZEE5 on December 12, 2025.

The film follows Smita, a small-town housewife whose life spirals into emotional and psychological turmoil. Exploring themes of betrayal, trust, and moral ambiguity, Saali Mohabbat aligns with Divyendu's broader reflections on perception and identity, reminding viewers that what lies beneath the surface often matters far more than appearances.