Actor Sweta Keswani supports Shahana Goswami over online criticism of her open relationships

Actor Sweta Keswani has defended fellow actor Shahana Goswami after she faced online trolling for speaking openly about having multiple partners. In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, Sweta supported Shahana's personal choices and called out society for having double standards regarding men and women's sexuality. Sweta questioned why people were so invested in Shahana's personal life, stating that managing even one relationship is exhausting. She argued that if Shahana enjoys having multiple connections and wants to continue living that way, people should focus on their own lives instead of judging her. Pointing out a hypocritical attitude in the country, Sweta highlighted that while men's extra-marital affairs often face less scrutiny, women who live life on their own terms and speak about being sexually active quickly receive criticism and name-calling. She added that consensual non-monogamy and open marriages already exist, noting that couples sometimes attend chemistry parties to meet others. Shahana Goswami had earlier explained in a conversation with the same interviewer that she does not have one primary partner, but shares long-standing, non-casual connections with multiple people. Shahana stated that her view on openness means there is no clear-cut partnership, but rather a long-term bond and connection based on love and friendship. She also mentioned that several of her partners have met each other and that she was introduced to open relationships at a young age.

Context

Online trolling and public debate often follow when public figures share unconventional views on personal relationships and dating. Discussions around modern dating structures like open relationships frequently highlight the contrast between traditional social norms and changing urban lifestyles in India.