Actress and writer Mindy Kaling has openly addressed her notable physical transformation in a recent social media post, sharing nostalgic photos from nearly a decade ago. The 46-year-old star of The Office and creator of The Mindy Project participated in a popular online trend, posting 'throwback' pictures from 2016.
A Candid Admission on Social Media
In her caption, Kaling made a frank admission about her changing appearance. "I saw this 2016 trend and loved it and almost didn't post because I look different," she wrote. She added a relatable note for her followers, stating, "(I wonder if anyone else can relate lol) but I loved this time and all my memories from then, so had to post! Enjoy!!!!" The post carefully avoided any mention of the persistent rumours suggesting she used weight loss injections, often referred to as 'jabs', to achieve her slimmer figure.
The shared images offered a delightful glimpse behind the scenes of her hit sitcom, The Mindy Project, which aired 117 episodes between 2012 and 2017. The photos featured Kaling in various costumes, including a pilot's uniform with a silver wig and a Chucky-inspired outfit. They also showed her posing with cast, crew, and the late television icon Betty White.
A Sustained Health and Wellness Journey
Kaling's weight loss has been a consistent topic of public discussion since The Mindy Project concluded eight years ago. Over the past year, she has frequently showcased a progressively slimmer physique. Her transformation was particularly highlighted at high-profile events earlier this month, including the Golden Eve Event and the WWD Style Awards on January 9, where she appeared in a sleek cut-out dress.
The actress has previously credited her health journey to lifestyle changes she embraced after becoming a mother. She is a parent to three children: eight-year-old Katherine 'Kit', five-year-old Spencer 'Spike', and Anne, who will turn two in February. In a 2023 Instagram post, Kaling reflected on her motivation, writing, "Look I know I'm clearly materialistic but the best birthday gift to me, for the rest of my life, are these two guys." She expressed a desire to "stay healthy for these two guys."
Dispelling Diet Myths and Embracing Balance
Contrary to speculation about drastic measures, Kaling has publicly described a balanced and sustainable approach to wellness. In an April 2022 interview with ET, she explained, "I eat what I like to eat. If I do any kind of restrictive diet, it never really works for me. I just eat less of it." She humorously wished there was a more "juicy or dynamic" story behind her weight loss, but affirmed that portion control was her key strategy.
Her regimen reportedly includes increased hydration, weight training, yoga, and lengthy walks of 15 to 20 miles per week. Speaking to E! News in 2022, Kaling shared her evolved perspective on fitness: "In my 20s, I had this very certain idea of what 'being fit' really meant... It took me a long time to realize that there are lots of different ways to be fit." She also noted that her doctor told her in 2023 that she was the healthiest she had been in years.
While Kaling continues to keep the identity of her children's father private—fueling speculation about her close friend and The Office co-star B.J. Novak—her focus remains firmly on her family and her personal, health-focused journey, which she now documents with refreshing honesty for her fans.
