Mrunal Thakur has publicly apologised after an old interview from her Kumkum Bhagya days resurfaced, showing her making a comment about Bipasha Basu’s muscular build. The Super 30 actress acknowledged her words were inappropriate and said she has since matured in her understanding of beauty and body image.

In a note shared on Instagram Stories without naming anyone, Mrunal wrote, “At 19, I said many silly things. I didn’t always realise the impact my words could have, even in jest. My intent was never to body-shame anyone—it was playful banter in an interview that went too far. But I now understand how it came across, and I truly wish I had chosen my words differently.”

She added, “Over time, I’ve learned that beauty exists in every form, and that’s something I deeply value today.”

Her apology came days after Bipasha Basu posted a cryptic message on Instagram urging women to support one another and embrace strength. “Strong women lift each other up. Get those muscles, beautiful ladies... Muscles help you attain good physical and mental health forever! Let’s break the outdated belief that women shouldn’t look strong,” Bipasha wrote.

The controversy stems from an old interview where Mrunal, alongside co-star Arjit Taneja, was teased about doing a headstand and push-ups. When Arjit mentioned he’d like to marry a toned, strong woman, Mrunal quipped that he should “go marry Bipasha,” adding she was “far better” than the actress.

The clip’s resurfacing triggered backlash online, prompting Mrunal to clarify that her words were immature, unintended to offend, and reflective of a younger, less thoughtful version of herself.