"My body’s not perfect by any means."
Padma Lakshmi turned 53 on September 1, 2023, and on that special occasion, she took to Instagram to pen a heartfelt note, reflecting on the previous year.
Posting pictures of herself in various bikini looks, the Top Chef host asserted that it has been a ‘glorious year of growth and gratitude’.
Padma Lakshmi expressed that there “have been moments of serious anxiety, insecurity and just feeling lost and low.”
The multi-talented personality penned a heartfelt note in which she started with, “Happy Birthday to Me.”
She continued: “This year I was so blessed, with family and friends who were there for me, cradled me, uplifted me, made me laugh, and reminded me of how rich a life we can live – if we are open to change.
“I won’t say it’s been all roses, there have been moments of serious anxiety, insecurity and just feeling lost and low.”
Padma pointed out that despite the setbacks, there was a benefit to be had and a muscle to be strengthened:
“But then even in those moments, I realised there was a benefit to be had. A muscle to be strengthened.
“My heart is open and I am so very grateful. What a glorious year of growth and gratitude.”
The social media influencer also pointed out, “These pics were of course a milestone, but just the tip of the iceberg.”
Padma Lakshmi concluded the post: “I love you all for being here with me, thank you for following along. I really like your company.”
These bikini looks were part of a Sports Illustrated photoshoot in Dominica, captured by Yu Tsai.
While on the location of the photoshoot, Padma said: “I really thought that the Sports Illustrated ship had sailed for me, or the possibility of it, and I’d never done it before.
“But I have never felt better about myself.
“My thighs may have been leaner, and my boobs were probably slightly higher in earlier parts of my life, but I wouldn’t go back to my 20s if you paid me all the money in the world.
“I love where I am in my life, and no, my body’s not perfect by any means, but I don’t care.
“I feel like I have a very lucky, fruitful, productive life, and I hope that’s what [people] see when they see these pictures.
“I hope they see a full woman in all my facets and nuances, and also some contradictions.”
Speaking about pre-photoshoot nerves, Padma Lakshmi said:
“I was a little bit freaked out because I knew that I couldn’t get as tight and lean as I could if I had some more time.
“But then I just looked in the mirror and I reminded myself, ‘I’m not here because I’m the world’s greatest model. I’m here because I’m me.’
“I’m not getting this in my 20s. I’m getting this now, at this point, and it’s so much sweeter because I’m doing it now.”
Loading ...