06 August,2026 03:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Akanksha Chamola (Picture via YouTube)
Akanksha Chamola has landed in the middle of another controversy after her remarks about sexuality on Lock Upp drew criticism from viewers and members of the LGBTQ community. Days after saying she currently identifies as asexual due to her ongoing divorce, the actor reiterated that she believes "sexuality is a phase," a statement that sparked fresh backlash online.
The controversy stems from Chamola's evolving conversations about her identity on the reality show. Earlier, she revealed that she was bisexual before marrying actor Gaurav Khanna and later shared that she now considers herself asexual, explaining that her current emotional state and divorce have influenced how she feels about intimacy. She maintained that sexuality can change with different phases of life.
While talking to Tejasswi Prakash in the eviction podcast, Akanksha Chamola said, "Yeah, it is. There are certain things emotionally, physically, mentally that get you to that point where you are like, you know what, I just don't want to have this thing with anyone. But that doesn't mean you are not seeking an emotional connection with a person. And now I know I am physically incapable of a relation in that sense. And that's why I say."
Tejasswi did make an attempt to school her over calling sexuality a phase, however, Akanksha Chamola had her own perception to the matter.
However, many social media users disagreed with her explanation, arguing that her comments could spread misconceptions about sexual orientation. Several viewers pointed out that being asexual is a sexual orientation, while a temporary lack of sexual desire during a difficult phase in life does not necessarily make someone asexual. Others expressed concern that describing sexuality as "just a phase" echoes a stereotype long used to dismiss LGBTQ identities.
The debate intensified after Chamola appeared on Tejasswi Prakash's chat show, where she reportedly stood by her earlier comments instead of clarifying them. Her remarks once again triggered criticism online, with many urging public figures to speak more carefully about sexuality and gender identity, given the influence they have on audiences.
Despite the backlash, Chamola has continued to speak candidly about her personal life on Lock Upp. Since entering the reality show, she has made several revelations, including confirming that she and husband Gaurav Khanna are heading for divorce after nearly a decade of marriage. She has also spoken about not wanting children, saying that differing life goals contributed to the breakdown of their relationship.
Chamola's statements have kept her at the centre of conversations surrounding Lock Upp, with some praising her openness about her personal struggles while others continue to question her understanding and description of sexual orientation. The discussion has since extended beyond the reality show, prompting broader conversations online about identity, representation and the importance of using accurate terminology when discussing LGBTQ experiences.
