“You cannot reduce her to a number on a scale” – Madhuri Backs Aishwarya

Madhuri Dixit publicly defended Aishwarya Rai Bachchan after the trolling she faced for her appearance in the Cannes Film Festival 2026. Aishwarya has been representing India at the Cannes for over two decades and while she received praise for her recent appearance at the event, she also faced criticism after the photos and videos went viral on social media. Reacting to this negativity, Madhuri Dixit emphasized that Aishwarya’s achievements and global legacy can not be reduced to such negative comments on her appearance.

She also stressed that judging women on the basis of her looks sends a wrong message to the younger generations. While criticizing the online trolling and appearance-based judgments, Madhuri further said that people had always made comments and social media now offers them to express opinions instantly. She also emphasized that Aishwarya had significantly contributed to Indian cinema while praising her global representation as well as stated “You cannot reduce her to a number on a scale”.

Her statements highlighted the large issue in the entertainment industry where women still face body-shaming and age-shaming. The controversy has sparked discussions not only around beauty standards, aging and the pressure faced by female celebrities but also on how social media often shifts focus from major achievements to physical appearances.