Let's Talk Dating: Meera Sharma Talks Women Empowerment in Dating and Life on Hit Dating Show, Take Me Out
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, today’s woman dreamer, Meera Sharma, shares her thoughts on all things dating. Ever wonder what life on a dating show is really like? Meera shares her experiences as a contestant on the hit dating show, Take Me Out, her new talk-show, Up Your Game, where she explores topics around South Asian dating, including a fun advice segment, “Ask the Auntie G”. She also voices her thoughts on a the important role that women empowerment and confidence must have in the dating world, and how to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. A must read for all women! Enjoy Meera’s exciting story, and have a lovely Valentine’s Day Weekend!
1) You have had quite a dynamic life & career! You are the host of talk show, Up Your Game around dating and south-asian dating specifically, many guests from the notable Indian Matchmaking. What inspired you to start this talkshow, and what is it like being a co-host?
On the back of appearing on Take Me Out I was very vocal on the importance of South Asian representation in mainstream media and challenging the stereotypes we see. I wanted to continue to do this, and of course challenge stigmas within our own community, and I felt a dating and relationship show would be the great way to do this. Jaya, my co-host, had seen me on Take Me Out and had asked a mutual friend to introduce us. We both realised that there are not many shows hosted by two British Indian women so we decided to then come together on this show for Rukus Avenue Radio. They fit the ethos of challenging stigmas and stereotypes with their shows so it was a perfect fit.
I produce the show, come up with topics and which guests to have and then we come together to record the episodes and interview guests. We also have a fun segment called Ask the Auntie G's, where we dish out advice to listeners dating and relationship problems. Having a co-host is fun as myself and Jaya are so different that it means we both bring two different opinions and experiences to the show.
2) You were a contestant on Hit Dating Show, Take Me Out. Tell us about this. what were some exciting moments of being a contestant on a dating show? What are some expectations vs. reality moments you had!
Yes, I was a contestant on the last ever season! I've watched the show for years - it's fun and allows the girls to show their personality as nothing is scripted. I thought it would be the perfect show to go on and show the UK that contrary to the stereotype we see around us we can be just as sassy and opinionated as our caucasian counterparts. I also showed that we are allowed to date - millions of viewers saw me keep my light on and off for a guy. Whilst I do acknowledge that the stereotype we see around South Asian women coming from strict families can be true for many, that is not the experience for all of us. I know plenty of South Asian women who can date who they want and live life on their terms. TV should reflect the variety rather than showing one viewpoint. That being said, it has got better, especially in the US thanks to the likes of Priyanka Chopra, Mindy and Jameela Jamil but we do still have a way to go.
When it comes to Take Me Out, it was an overall fun experience. We all had hair and makeup and I got to try out loads of different looks on the show, which was dreamy. Paddy and the rest of the girls were lovely too. We filmed in front of a live audience and it was fun walking up to our podium, each night, with a different music soundtrack!
I wasn't expecting it to be so free flowing -we basically just say what comes to mind when we see the guy come down the lift. It's a surprise for all of us!
3) There is a lot of overlap between dating & women empowerment. What are your thoughts on this? How can women empower themselves while on the dating search?
For sure. Dating is a great way to get to know what you are really looking for - you meet so many people, from various backgrounds during the journey especially if you use dating apps as depending on how you use filters you can speak to guys who you wouldn't perhaps come across in your day to day.
Women should not feel pressured to be in a relationship and just date because everyone is telling them to, the empowerment comes from knowing what you want, your worth and doing what you want. There is nothing wrong with being single. I'm a firm believer in people living their single life, having their 'eat, pray, love' moments before settling down. You have to become comfortable with being by yourself, rather than thinking you need someone to complete you! Remember partnership is about finding someone to compliment your life NOT complete you. You complete yourself. It is your choice, and I think that's where empowerment comes from.
4) You are the author of Little Book of Sass. What a cute title! What is your favorite line from the book?
Thank you! The book has loads of little quotes to perk you up when you need it so just open a page to be motivated!
There's loads of empowering quotes so it's difficult to choose one. Instead I've opened a page to give everyone a message - "confidence has no competition - the only person you should be competing with is yourself. Make today sassier than yesterday .”
5) As this is Covid times, Valentines Day looks a bit different this year. What are your tips for having a fun holiday, especially for single people and married couples?
If you're single, and V'day makes you feel a bit down then use the day to pamper yourself and focus on self-care, whether that's doing some yoga, watching your favourite movie/ TV show, or reading a book. Another option is to have a zoom call with your favourite single pals and play some virtual games.
For those in a relationship or dating, then virtual dates are a safe option - make your zoom or FT calls a bit different and watch a movie together or make some dinner, or even do both!
6) As #Dreamcatchers, what is your next big dream?
My next big dream is to fully expand Theschoolofsass.com and help people channel their inner sassy selves to live their best lives. I would love to do more public speaking - Indian, female Tony Robins would be nice ;) I want all women to feel empowered!
Meera Sharma is a British Indian media personality and writer who first came into the limelight on series 11 the hit ITV dating show Take Me Out. Meera’s work explores the intersection between her Indian heritage and Western upbringing; she uses numerous mediums to encourage discussions around identity, representation and female empowerment.