In a world that often fixates on superficial standards of beauty, actress Rubina Dilaik has courageously confronted a troubling societal norm—comparing the skin tones of her 18-month-old twin daughters, Jeeva and Edhaa. In a recent vlog, Rubina shared her frustration with relatives and others who comment on her daughters' differing complexions, with one being described as "dusky" and the other as "fair." She revealed that some even suggested using traditional remedies like besan (gram flour) or dal paste to lighten the skin of the darker-toned twin. This essay explores Rubina’s response to such biases, the broader societal implications, and her inspiring approach to fostering self-love in her children.

The Burden of Colorism in Society

Colorism, the practice of favoring lighter skin tones over darker ones, is deeply ingrained in many cultures, including India, where fair skin is often equated with beauty, success, and privilege. This bias is so pervasive that it extends even to infants, as Rubina’s experience illustrates. The unsolicited advice to apply besan or other home remedies to "improve" her daughter’s complexion reflects a troubling mindset that equates lighter skin with superiority. Such remarks, even when made casually by family members, perpetuate harmful stereotypes and undermine the inherent beauty of diversity.

Rubina’s story highlights how colorism can infiltrate personal spaces, affecting even the youngest members of society. The fact that her daughters, who are still in their infancy, are subjected to such comparisons underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. It’s a stark reminder that societal biases are not just abstract concepts but real pressures that impact families and shape how children perceive themselves from an early age.

Rubina’s Defiant Stand Against Bias

Rubina Dilaik’s response to these comparisons is both powerful and inspiring. She firmly rejects the notion that her daughters’ worth is tied to their skin tone, declaring, “My girls are beautiful just the way they are.” By shutting down suggestions to alter their appearance, she sends a clear message: beauty is not defined by complexion but by individuality and self-acceptance. Her approach is a direct challenge to outdated norms, emphasizing that her home is a sanctuary where such biases are not welcome.

Her stance is particularly significant given her platform as a public figure. As a celebrated actress known for roles in shows like Choti Bahu and Shakti, and as the winner of Bigg Boss 14, Rubina has a wide audience that looks up to her. By openly addressing colorism, she not only protects her daughters but also sets an example for others, encouraging parents to reject harmful beauty standards and advocate for their children’s self-worth.

Nurturing Self-Love from Infancy

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Rubina’s approach is her commitment to instilling confidence in her daughters from a young age. Despite their tender age, she whispers affirmations to them, saying, “You are beautiful, you are strong, you are fearless.” This practice reflects her understanding that self-esteem is built over time through consistent, positive reinforcement. By starting early, Rubina aims to equip Jeeva and Edhaa with the resilience to navigate a world that may try to judge them based on appearance.

This proactive parenting philosophy is rooted in Rubina’s own journey of self-acceptance, which she acknowledges took her over 30 years to fully embrace. Her determination to ensure her daughters grow up free from the insecurities she faced is a testament to her commitment to breaking generational cycles of colorism. It’s a reminder that fostering self-love in children is not just about words but about creating an environment where they feel valued for who they are, not how they look.

The Role of Society in Change

Rubina’s experience is a call to action for society to rethink its obsession with fair skin. The media, beauty industry, and even everyday conversations often reinforce the idea that lighter skin is more desirable, perpetuating a cycle of prejudice. To create lasting change, we must challenge these norms at every level—through education, representation, and open dialogue. Parents, like Rubina, play a critical role in this shift by modeling acceptance and celebrating diversity within their families.

Moreover, the responsibility extends beyond individuals to institutions. The beauty and entertainment industries must prioritize diverse representations of beauty, showcasing people of all skin tones in positive, empowering roles. By doing so, they can help dismantle the harmful standards that lead to comments like those Rubina faced about her daughters.

A Vision for a More Inclusive Future

Rubina Dilaik’s stand against colorism is more than a personal story—it’s a powerful statement about the kind of world we should strive for. Her refusal to entertain skin-tone comparisons and her commitment to raising confident, self-assured daughters offer a blueprint for others. By celebrating her daughters’ unique beauty and rejecting outdated remedies like besan, she challenges society to embrace diversity in all its forms.

As Jeeva and Edhaa grow, they will do so in a home that values them for their individuality, not their complexion. Rubina’s story inspires us all to confront our biases, reject superficial standards, and foster a culture where every child is taught to love themselves as they are. In doing so, we can create a future where beauty is defined not by the shade of one’s skin but by the strength of one’s character.

Read Also: The Unlikely Triumph of Munna Bhai MBBS Against South Indian Distributor Skepticism