Singer Jonita Gandhi was born in Delhi to a Punjabi family. However, when she was just nine months old, her parents moved to Canada. She grew up there.

Recently, during an interview with Hauterrfly, Jonita talked about the challenges she faced while growing up. She revealed how racism, bullying, and low self-esteem impacted her life.

She Faced Racism in India, Not Canada

While growing up in Canada, Jonita had a supportive environment. She said many brown people lived around her, so she didn’t feel different.

However, things changed when she visited India. She felt like an outsider.

She explained that even rickshaw drivers treated her differently. They spoke harshly and charged her more. As a result, she felt she didn’t belong.

Bullies Teased Her for Facial Hair

Next, Jonita talked about how she was bullied because of her appearance.

She shared, "I used to get a lot of racist comments while growing up. But I was more bothered about being bullied for my facial hair. I used to have curly side-locks. They used to call me Godzilla. I think they just thought I was ugly. I used to come home and cry. Even the Punjabi boys in my class would make fun of me."

Clearly, these experiences left her feeling hurt and ashamed.

She Struggled With Body Image Issues

After that, Jonita revealed how these comments affected how she saw herself.

She said, "Growing up, I was convinced that I was never going to have sex because of the same issues. I couldn't accept my own body; how can someone else accept it?"

Even now, she admits that these feelings haven’t completely gone away.

However, she found a way to cope. "I still have some of those issues; music helped me. It made me feel I am doing something different in life. That made me feel cool when nothing else made me feel cool."

Music Helped Her Build Confidence

Later, Jonita explained how music gave her strength and a sense of purpose.

Even during live shows in Toronto, she didn’t follow fashion trends. "Even when I did shows in Toronto, I didn't dress up good. I used to wear a kurti, whereas everyone wore a lehenga. I feel like I am the ugly duckling who became the swan."

She Now Shines in Beparwai

Today, Jonita is in the spotlight for her latest music video Beparwai. She not only showcased her voice but also amazed everyone with her dance skills.

She posted a clip on Instagram and wrote, "This one’s been a long time coming and I’m so proud of it! Give it your love."

As expected, fans have praised both her singing and performance.