Bollywood
Kajol Fires Back at Criticism Over Paparazzi Spat: ‘I Won’t Apologize for Being Myself’
Bollywood star Kajol has recently been in the media spotlight as videos have circulated showing her in tense interactions with the paparazzi, sparking a wave of online criticism. Social media users were quick to label the actress as “rude,” pointing to her apparent frustration with photographers during public appearances, including her recent Durga Puja celebrations.
In an interview with Zoom, Kajol addressed the backlash head-on, making it clear she has no intentions of apologizing for expressing her genuine self. “I do get angry. I have bad days and good days—that’s me,” she remarked, explaining that her emotions are a natural part of who she is, regardless of public opinion.
Kajol expressed her unwillingness to conform to societal expectations that celebrities must maintain a polished, unflappable image at all times. She noted how social media fosters an environment where people only post curated, “perfect” moments, creating unrealistic standards that don’t reflect the ups and downs of real life. “I am completely real on social media,” she asserted.
During the Durga Puja celebrations, a video showed Kajol telling paparazzi to make way for devotees, saying, “People are standing behind you for anjouli. Please move aside, please side ho jaiye, peeche ho jaiye. Anjouli dene ke liye logo ko aane dijiye.” She was also seen asking photographers to respect the religious setting by not coming too close to the idol with shoes on.
By addressing the criticism directly, Kajol has reinforced her stance on authenticity, sharing that she won’t adjust her behavior to fit the public’s ideal of how a celebrity “should” act. “I will not mold myself according to anyone’s standards,” she stated, adding that her anger, just like her joy, is part of her true self.
