MUMBAI: In a candid and courageous revelation, model and reality TV star Sifat Sehgal has opened up about her harrowing journey with anorexia and her recovery, offering an unfiltered glimpse into a battle that remained hidden for years. Known for her appearances on Netflix's IRL: In Real Love and now as a contestant on Reality Ranis of the Jungle, Sifat is using her platform to break the silence around eating disorders and inspire others struggling with similar challenges.
Reflecting on her experience, Sifat shared, “I battled with eating disorders and anorexia for a long time. For years, I didn’t know what hunger felt like—I thought it was normal not to feel hungry. I weighed just 35 kilograms, and it was a constant struggle that took a toll on my body and mind.”
As she prepared for her role on Reality Ranis of the Jungle, Sifat's focus on fitness was not just about physical strength but also about healing mentally. “To get ready for the show, I had to push myself beyond my comfort zone. I’m not someone who loves the gym, but I started working out every day. Mentally, I’ve grown so much over the years. Overcoming body dysmorphia and my unhealthy relationship with food has made me stronger, and that resilience helped me power through the toughest moments on the show.”
Sifat's journey toward recovery was far from easy and required professional help. “It took me two years of therapy to heal my relationship with food and weight,” she explained. “I used to feel like not even a ‘normal’ person. But seeking therapy was the best decision I ever made. It saved my life, and I’m grateful I had the support to come out stronger.”
Through her story, Sifat hopes to shed light on the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards in the modeling industry and beyond. She emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for open conversations around eating disorders, particularly in environments where appearance often dictates worth.
“People need to know that they are not alone in their struggles,” Sifat says. “It’s okay to seek help, and it's important to redefine what health and beauty truly mean. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and if sharing my journey can help even one person, then it’s worth it.”
As she continues to navigate her career and life in the public eye, Sifat is committed to advocating for body positivity and mental well-being. Her candidness is a reminder that true strength lies not just in physical fitness but in the courage to confront one’s own vulnerabilities and emerge more resilient.