Do Looks Matter Honestly?

The question of whether looks matter has been a topic of debate for centuries, and in the modern era of social media and instant information, it remains as relevant as ever. This article explores the idea of appearance in light of various personal experiences and societal norms, challenging the notion that beauty is the only measure of a person's worth.

Opinions of Celebrity Icons

In the world of entertainment, the influence of looks is undeniable. Take Katrina Kaif, for instance, who has had a decade-long career in Bollywood, securing numerous movie roles based on her glamorous appearance. While her looks undoubtedly help her in the industry, it is her acting skills and talent that truly deserve recognition. Similarly, in the South Indian film industry, many actresses are chosen for their looks and not necessarily their acting abilities. Examples like Radhika Pandit in the Kannada film industry showcase how looks can overshadow talent. These examples highlight the often crass and superficial nature of the entertainment industry.

Personal Experiences and Reflections

My own experiences growing up in a typical Rajasthani family, where fair skin is seen as superior, underline the deep-rooted insecurity that can accompany looks. I was often told that a woman must be fair to be considered beautiful. However, as time passed, I realized that true beauty lies within a person's character, behavior, and personality. While the initial shock of societal beauty standards cannot be ignored, one can learn to accept and love oneself despite external appearances.

Evolution of Mindset

Years ago, I believed that matching the beauty standards of the surrounding society made it easier to be loved. However, several incidents throughout my life have challenged this mindset. For instance, attending college and meeting people without a preconceived notion of beauty standards provided a different perspective. A college friend, M, smiled at me despite my dusky skin tone, and the conversation that followed led to a deeper understanding of how beauty is subjective.

Another significant incident involved my sister, who struggled with self-esteem issues due to her misaligned teeth. After getting braces, she began to smile more freely, which made others appreciate her positive energy and personality over a superficial notion of beauty. These experiences highlight the importance of kindness, warmth, and genuineness over physical standards.

A relative's comparison between my cousin's wife and another woman also provided a stark lesson. Both women were adored by their families for their kindness and positive energy, rather than their physical appearance. This reaffirms the idea that true affection comes from a person's inner qualities and genuine human connections.

Conclusion: Embrace Authenticity and True Beauty

While looks certainly matter in the immediate sense, they should not define one's worth or self-esteem. The focus should be on authenticity, kindness, and the love and affection that one shares with others. True beauty is found in being oneself, unapologetically. As I've learned, the people who truly care about you will appreciate you for who you are, and the insecurities will gradually fade with self-confidence and self-love.