Television actress Shilpa Shinde has responded to criticism following her recent podcast appearance, stating that the backlash against her is driven by a 'paid PR' campaign and urging the public not to judge her remarks without viewing the entire conversation.
Shinde shared a video statement on Instagram in which she defended herself against mounting online criticism arising from comments made during the podcast.
In the caption of her post, she wrote, “Passing judgment on a single line without watching the entire podcast is a poor approach by paid PR.” She said her statements were taken out of context and expressed gratitude to supporters who understood her perspective.
The controversy centres on Shinde’s podcast interview where she discussed personal experiences and challenges faced while working on the television show ‘Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!’. She admitted to making false allegations against the show’s producer to deflect accusations directed at her and avoid legal consequences. Shinde claimed these allegations against her were part of a targeted campaign designed to control her and obstruct her career prospects if she left the show.
In the Instagram video, Shinde addressed her critics: “After this PR, the comments that are coming, I want to tell them that you will get what you sow. You will get what you sow.” She questioned the focus on her personal life and urged people to reflect on their own actions.
She explained the emotional impact of these events and why she chose to speak publicly at this time: “I didn’t do this for money. I had left the show.” Shinde emphasised that her decision to speak out was motivated by personal reasons rather than financial gain.
She further revealed the toll that public scrutiny took on her mental health and recalled a period of significant struggle. Shinde also shared a story of an individual who told her that her journey had inspired them during a difficult time in their own life.
Addressing social media users, she said, “Jo mere saath hua aap logo ko nahi pata, bhagwaan na kare aapke ya aapke ghar walo ke saath aisa ho. Voh jo time tha sirf mujhe pata hai. Maine ye sirf paiso ke liye nahi kiya.” She added that she did not expect support and was prepared to face criticism: “After this PR, the comments that are coming, I want to tell them that you will get what you sow. So without understanding the situation that you are writing, Oh my God, you are so worried about a girl like me. She is not married yet. Why? You worry about yourself.”
She continued, “People are worried why you are lying to a person who is telling the truth. I knew this was going to happen. Because the world never appreciates anything good. Especially people like you who comment like this. I didn’t have to say this today. I had already done the show after 10 years. I was doing it. I could have said it then too. So I don’t want to get caught in your eyes. I got caught in my own eyes. Because it was a lie. I couldn’t live with that lie myself. I had to say it today or tomorrow. Sometimes you need a chance for that.”
She added, “I didn’t do this for money. I had left the show. I had left the show. I was out of the blame that was put on me. Even after Big Boss, I met a person. He told me that my father committed suicide. Because he was treated very bad at his job. And I was going to do the same thing. I was writing a suicide note. I found your video in Big Boss. You are inspiring for me. I am alive today because of you. It was such a big thing for me. I can’t tell you.”
Shinde continued, “I didn’t have any other way. I mean, I was in that situation myself. That I should commit suicide. But people still laugh and abuse. But when you don’t do anything wrong. You are not afraid of anything. That’s why I don’t want to stand in front of you. No one supported me at that time. So I don’t expect anyone’s support right now. I am ready to take all this. I really don’t care.”
Shinde’s remarks have sparked widespread debate online, with some social media users criticising her comments while others have expressed support.
The actress stated that she wished to clear the record as she could no longer live with what she described as a lie.
One fan commented, “You are pure soul.” Another wrote, “Shilpa, I have a huge respect towards you. You are a fighter and I am very proud to be your fan. I am forever with you.” A further admirer said, “Shilpa ma’am is such one rare actor who speaks her mind, heart and mouth the same way and that too only truth. Her unapologetic honesty is her superpower, ma’am. You are such a star.”
Shinde is currently promoting her recent projects, including the stage production ‘Tom and Jerry’.