Neha Bhasin has never shied away from addressing body shaming, choosing to speak openly about it. Negative comments on social media still come her way, but she says they no longer affect her. After all, she’s faced similar criticism since the very start of her career — even before social media existed.

“I began my career when there were no smartphones or internet. As part of the all-girl pop band Viva, we were expected to look a certain way. Instead of supporting me, people who managed my work created insecurities,” Neha recalls.

She explains that weight issues are sometimes linked to health struggles. “I have PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), which causes bloating, mood swings and emotional highs and lows for half the month. It impacted me at a very young age. Therapy helped me accept that this is a medical issue, not something in my control,” she says.

Now, with more than two decades in the industry, Neha reflects on her journey with pride and perspective. “Looking back at my younger self, I’m proud of everything I’ve done. The only thing I wish is that I had more faith in myself — I wish I had doubted myself a little less. I’ve stood on my own two strong feet. I had no godfather, no blessings from the industry, no friends here. And I don’t say that in a bad way — it’s just been a solo journey. I’m proud of it. It’s not easy for someone who came from outside (Delhi),” says Neha, who is currently busy with independent music projects and live performances.