Designing a Dream Child: Fashion Icon Masaba Gupta Slams Racist Advice After Shocking Rasgulla Recommendation for Fairer Baby

Acclaimed Indian fashion designer Masaba Gupta has been making headlines lately, and this time it's not just for her stunning sartorial creations. The celebrated designer who's also a successful entrepreneur is expecting her first child, and she's been facing some bizarre advice from well-wishers. In a recent interview, Gupta shared her experience with racism, revealing that she's been at the receiving end of discriminatory remarks throughout her life. She's now preparing to shield her child from similar racist comments. The latest incident, however, has left her baffled – her masseuse advised her to indulge in rasgullas to have a fairer child.

Gupta took to social media to express her shock and disappointment, lamenting the fact that such racist advice is still prevalent in society. 'Saawla nahi hona chahiye' (he shouldn't be dark-skinned), she wrote, reiterating the masseuse's suggestion. The ill-advised recommendation, according to the masseuse, was based on the unhealthy assumption that fairer skin is synonymous with beauty and success.

In the same interview, Gupta confessed that she's always been a victim of racism, having faced relentless scrutiny and harsh criticism throughout her career. Born to veteran actress Neena Gupta and West Indian cricketer Sir Viv Richards, Masaba's mixed heritage has frequently been a subject of discussion in the Indian media. Gupta also revealed that her multiracial ancestry has often led to unsavory remarks, with many perpetuating the racist notion that fair skin is more desirable.

Emphasizing her decision to not let the same attitude be passed on to her child, Gupta stressed the importance of instilling a sense of self-confidence and self-acceptance in her little one. 'My child will be confident, self-assured, and compassionate. He or she will learn to combat racism with love, respect, and understanding. If this child is dark-skinned or light-skinned, they will be confident in their own skin – they will not feel the urge to fulfill someone's expectation of beauty based on skin tone,' she asserted.

While the overwhelming majority of her fans and followers welcomed Gupta's statement, praising her courage and conviction, many took this opportunity to share their own experiences with racism. Countless social media users expressed their admiration for Gupta's eloquence and determination to fight this debilitating issue head-on. Though her actions and statements might just spark a long-overdue conversation, it's essential to acknowledge that conversations like these are merely a first step.

There is a pressing need for change – one that reflects a shift in societal attitudes and norms. Racism is a deep-rooted malaise that demands collective involvement. In conjunction with influential voices like Masaba Gupta, we should continue to question and confront these discriminatory assumptions, challenging societal norms and pressing for more inclusive narratives. The end goal is a world that celebrates diversity in all its forms – where our individuality, free from the constraints of racist judgments, can truly thrive.