Anjali Anand Opens Up on Body Shaming, Finding Her Place in Bollywood and Her Journey to ‘Dhamaal 4’

Anjali Anand has opened up about her decade-long journey in the entertainment industry, the recognition she is finally receiving, and the constant conversations around body image and body shaming. Ahead of the release of her upcoming comedy entertainer Dhamaal 4, the actress reflected on her career, her unique identity, and why she believes confidence comes from embracing who you truly are. Known for bringing authenticity to her performances, Anjali said that her journey has been built step by step, with every project playing an important role in shaping her career.

During a recent media interaction for Dhamaal 4, Anjali spoke about completing nearly 10 years in the industry and finally receiving the appreciation she has worked towards for so long. Sharing how people from her past have reacted to her growing recognition, the actress said, “My old friends and the people who used to live in my old building—everyone—are messaging me. I feel like, ‘It’s about time.’ I’ve been trying to make it in the industry for 10 years. If things are finally happening in this tenth year, then it really is about time people realized I exist.”

Talking about whether Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani became a turning point in her career, Anjali explained that every opportunity contributed to where she is today. She said, “As I said, every project of mine has led me to the next one. Everything—from Dhhai Kilo Prem to Untag, then Kulfi Kumar Bajewala, and even Bell Bottom (where I had just a fleeting appearance), leading up to Rocky Aur Rani, where everything changed. That role got me Dabba Cartel, then Dil Bekaraar, Raaj Jawan Hai, and Dhamaal. Everything has helped; I’ve done 10 projects in 10 years, so...I must be doing something right to still be here and keep getting work.”

The actress also opened up about how audience acceptance plays a major role in an actor’s growth. She added, “In this industry, you grow based on the love you receive from the audience—that’s what it’s all about. The more people connect with me and know who I am—and understand my purpose and intent... well, if a person's intent is genuine, nothing can stop them. I think people eventually recognize that.” Her words reflect her belief that honesty and perseverance matter more than following a fixed image of success.

Addressing the topic of body shaming and the pressure on actresses to maintain a certain appearance, especially with the popularity of the “zero figure” trend, Anjali confidently shared her perspective. Responding to the idea that her appearance represents a different kind of image in the industry, she said, “It is a different aura. If everyone were the same, wouldn't it get boring? My aura is distinct, and I am incredibly proud of it. I don't create difficulties; others do. I have no issues with myself. I am confident in what I bring to the table.”

She further explained that comparisons often come from personal insecurities rather than reality, adding, “People struggle to digest it—thinking, ‘I’m dieting so hard and doing all these things, yet I’m not reaching that level; how did she get there?’ But that doesn't mean I’ve struggled less or they’ve struggled more; it’s simply a matter of perspective. I believe that if someone says something negative to you, it’s because they aren't happy with themselves. It has nothing to do with you. The moment you realize that, you’ll gain confidence.”

Anjali Anand will next be seen in Dhamaal 4, the fourth installment of the popular comedy franchise directed by Indra Kumar. Produced by T-Series Films, Panorama Studios, Devgn Films, and Maruti International, the film serves as a direct sequel to Dhamaal (2007), Double Dhamaal (2011), and Total Dhamaal (2019). Featuring an ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Jaaved Jaaferi, Ravi Kishan, Sanjay Mishra, Upendra Limaye, Anjali Anand, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Esha Gupta, and Vijay Patkar, the adventure comedy is scheduled to release theatrically on July 10, 2026.