31st July 2023, Mumbai: Bigg Boss, the popular television show hosted by Salman Khan, is currently running its successful OTT season 2. With 16 seasons aired on TV and 1 on the digital platform, the show has witnessed its fair share of conflicts among contestants. Unfortunately, age shaming has been one of the darker aspects of the show, where participants have been subjected to derogatory remarks based on their age.
Avinash Sachdev: Age Shaming Amidst Stardom
Avinash Sachdev, a well-known face on television, stepped into the Bigg Boss house aiming for the winner’s trophy. However, his fellow contestant, Abhishek Malkhan, made hurtful remarks, calling him “buddha” (old) and eccentric, highlighting the prevalence of age shaming in the house.
Archana Gautam: Tagged as “Aunty” in Season 16
In Bigg Boss 16, Archana Gautam faced the brunt of age shaming when MC Stan, the show’s winner, derogatorily referred to her as “aunty” and “basti ki aunty” (neighborhood aunt). Such comments perpetuate age-related stereotypes and reinforce harmful attitudes.
Sidharth Shukla: Victorious, Yet Age Shamed
Even though Sidharth Shukla emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss 13, he too experienced age shaming. During a heated argument, contestant Mahira Sharma called him “buddha,” causing a backlash on social media, as age should never be a factor for derogatory comments.
Shamita Shetty: Facing Age Shaming in Season 2 of OTT
In Bigg Boss OTT season 2, Shamita Shetty was targeted by fellow contestant Akshara Singh with age shaming remarks. The incident triggered outrage among netizens, who came to Shamita’s defense and condemned such behavior.
Kashmera Shah: Offended by Age-Related Comments
In Bigg Boss 13, Kashmera Shah was offended when Nikki Tamboli made a comment about respecting her due to her age during nominations. Age-related comments can be hurtful and disrespectful, and Kashmera’s reaction highlighted the need for sensitivity.
Sajid Khan: Age Shaming on National Television
Filmmaker Sajid Khan participated in Bigg Boss 16 and faced age shaming from Archana Gautam, who referred to him as “buddha” during the show. Publicly shaming someone based on age is unacceptable and can have lasting effects on the person’s self-esteem.
Shefali Jariwala: Hurt by Age-Related Remarks
Shefali Jariwala’s stint in Bigg Boss 13 saw her engaged in a bitter feud with contestant Paras Chhabra. Paras took to calling her a “cougar,” a term used to mock older women dating younger men, which deeply hurt Shefali.
Eijaz Khan: Rising Above Age Shaming
During Bigg Boss 15, Eijaz Khan faced age shaming from fellow contestant Rahul Vaidya. However, Eijaz chose not to let the comments affect him and demonstrated resilience in the face of such negativity.
Rakhi Sawant: The Target of “Bua” Taunts
In her wild card entry in Bigg Boss 13, Rakhi Sawant was often referred to as “Bua” by her co-contestants. Additionally, Rubina Dilaik, another contestant, also engaged in age-related jokes about Rakhi. Such comments highlight the need for greater awareness and sensitivity.
Promoting Respect and Empathy
Age shaming is an unfortunate aspect of Bigg Boss, reflecting larger societal issues. As viewers, we must remember that age should never be used as a means to demean or ridicule anyone. Instead, let us celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of people of all ages. Promoting respect and empathy can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment, both within the Bigg Boss house and beyond.
-by Kashvi Gala