American comedian Mindy Kaling appeared on one of four front covers of Elle magazine for its 'Women in Television' February issue.

The 'Mindy Project' star features in a close-up snap that focuses on her face.

The other three women, who feature on their own covers, are Zooey Deschanel, Amy Poehler and Allison Williams, and their snap-shots are a full body image.

Kaling's cropped face shot has caused a stir on the internet as bloggers suspect that the actress did not want her curvy figure to be photographed.

One disgruntled writer, for Yahoo! Shine, ponded that "the creative direction is curious, given Elle's murky history when it comes to showcasing fuller-figured women."

Another conern is that 'The Office' actress, who is of Indian descent, is also the only women of colour featured on the four covers, and the only one shown in grey, not colour.

The 34 year-old has responded to this speculation and doesn't seem to care about the image or her own physique.

In her own comedic style, Kalings tweeted, "I love my @ELLEmagazine cover. It made me feel glamorous & cool. And if anyone wants to see more of my body, go on thirteen dates with me."

 

Mindy didn't want to waste this opportunity of extra publicity and managed to squeeze in a plug for her new FOX television show 'The Mindy Project'.

"Wishing for more skin on my @ELLEmagazine cover? Chris Messina & I are naked on a brand new #themindyproject tonight, ya pervs! 930/830 FOX," she posted.

Elle are supporting their decision and the 'Wreck It Ralph' voice actor, as the mag released a statement which said, "Mindy looks sexy, beautiful and chic. We think it is a striking and sophisticated cover and are thrilled to celebrate her in our Women in TV Issue."

Mindy Kalings
Mindy Kaling has a curvier figure than the other women featured on the cover