The actor and newly-minted Shiseido brand ambassador on overcoming unrealistic standards of beauty, navigating the world of films, and a possible encounter with extraterrestrial beings.
- Beauty
Tamannaah Bhatia On Beauty, Inner Confidence, and Learning to Be Resilient
Tamannaah Bhatia
[Image courtesy: Instagram]
The Word.: You began working in the film industry at a very young, impressionable age. Were you ever made to feel like you were less than beautiful?
Tamannaah Bhatia: “It was exciting as well as challenging. But it also taught me to be determined and resilient, qualities that have been invaluable for my career.”
TW.: Were there any unrealistic standards of beauty that you were able to overcome in your journey?
TB: “In the entertainment industry, there is often pressure to conform to certain ideals of beauty. I have learned that true beauty is about embracing your uniqueness and being confident in your own skin. It is essential to focus on being healthy and happy rather than trying to fit into someone else’s definition of beauty. Through self-acceptance and personal growth, I have been able to break free from these unrealistic ideals and not let them define my self-worth…and I encourage others to do the same.”
TW.: Japanese beauty is having a moment right now. What do you love most about the values and concepts it is based on?
TB: “What I love most about Japanese beauty is its emphasis on simplicity, quality, and the balance between tradition and innovation. The holistic approach to beauty and skincare is truly inspiring.”
TW.: On that note, congratulations on being the first Indian actor to become the ambassador of Shiseido’s ASR range. When did you first get acquainted with the brand?
TB: “I have been using Shiseido products for a while now and I was impressed by their exceptional quality and results. Their products—particularly the Shiseido Essential Energy Hydrating Cream from the ASR range—have captivated me. The products have made a noticeable difference to my skin’s texture and made it more radiant.
When I was presented with the opportunity to become the ambassador for the ASR range, I was overjoyed. It felt like a dream realised…being the official Indian representative for a remarkable brand like Shiseido.”
TW: What aspect of beauty excites you the most: skincare or make-up—and why?
TB: “I’m more excited about skincare because healthy skin is the canvas for any makeup look. Good skincare is the foundation of beauty.”
TW: The beauty landscape has completely changed in the past decade since you have been active as an actor…
TB: “The beauty industry has evolved, and it is critical that it adapts. I believe that confidence stems from self-acceptance and inner strength, which can assist in navigating changing beauty ideals.”
TW: What would you tell celebrities who claim to have beautiful skin because they practice positive affirmations and drink gallons of water?
TB: “Positive affirmations and hydration are essential, but there’s no one-formula-fits-all for great skin. Consistent skincare and a healthy lifestyle play significant roles, too.”
TW: What’s the one thing you wish people had told you about confidence when you were younger?
TB: “I wish someone had told me that true confidence comes from within and that external validation is fleeting. It’s something I’ve learned over the years.”
The Word. Plays a Quick Round of ‘Would You Rather’ with Tamannaah Bhatia
Would you rather be intelligent or attractive?
“I believe intelligence is a gift that provides us with many advantages in life. While beauty has its place, I prefer intelligence because it opens doors to endless possibilities and contributes to personal growth.”
Would you rather share your most-coveted beauty products with your man, or break up with him if you were forced to share?
“I would share my most coveted beauty products with my man as it can be a bonding experience. and it is important to prioritise relationships over material possessions.
Would you rather live one life for 1,000 years, or 10, 100-year lives?
“I’d choose one life for 1,000 years as it would allow me to deeply explore, learn, and contribute to the world while leaving a lasting legacy.”
Would you rather run into an alien or be experimented on at a secret facility?
“I’d prefer to run into an alien. The idea of meeting an extraterrestrial being and learning about their culture and civilisation is fascinating.”
Would you rather time travel to your past or to your future?
“The future, for sure, as it is full of mysteries—I would like to find out what it has in store for me and the rest of the world.”
Would you rather know what your cat/dog really thinks of you, or never hear them speak?
“I would like to know what my dog thinks about me. Understanding their feelings and needs would strengthen our bond.”
Would you rather live in a world without music or movies?
“I could live in a world without movies as music has the ability to touch the soul, evoke emotions, and connect people on a deeper level.”
