Reality TV star Sidharth Bhardwaj, who was refused entry into a Sydney pub because of the tattoos around his neck, reveals discrimination against people with tattoos exists in the Indian entertainment industry too.
Sharing his experience of tattoo discrimination at work, the 31-year-old told IANS over phone: "I have been denied roles in several projects because of tattoos on my body. Many people have gotten the roles which were earlier offered to me.
"It feels bad to get rejected on the basis of tattoos. It would be completely acceptable if you reject an actor on the basis of his/her acting, but discriminating them on the basis of their tattoo is unfair."
Frustrated over the discrimination happening in society over small things, Sidharth has urged people to accept each other as they are.
He said: "We are not living in the 1980s. We all should accept each other with open arms and try not to judge someone without knowing them.
"No doubt, many people have had unpleasant experiences in foreign countries and have dealt with discriminatory situations, but in India, we are also doing the same thing. We stereotype south Indians, Mumbai based people make fun of Delhi people and vice versa. So, this feeling of hatred should not be there in us."
The former Bigg Boss contestant will next be seen in a web show titled Aafat, for which he underwent massive physical transformation. Sidharth has lost 10-12 kg and is on a strict diet.
He said: "I prepared quite hard for my role for this show. My character demanded this transformation. I did not take salt and carbohydrates in my diet. And I always try my best to avoid junk food because it takes a lot of hard work to maintain a healthy physique."
The actor has health tips for fitness enthusiasts too.
"It is very important to understand your body and its requirements. Make sure one trains everyday and try to stay away from junk because there is so much adulteration nowadays. One should be careful with what they eat."
Aafat is an upcoming web show about the struggles and hardships couples go through in an arranged marriage.
Talking about the show, Sidharth said: "The show will focus on the concept of an arranged marriage in India and how females have to face cliched thinking of Indian families. I found the story very much interesting and I think it will leave a strong impact on society."
