In a heartfelt and courageous revelation, actor and singer Ishitta Arun has broken her silence about the disturbing online trolling she faced following the passing of her beloved father, renowned musician Amit Arun. The artist, known for her work in films like 'Manto,' shared how social media toxicity reached new lows during her most vulnerable moments.
The Dark Side of Digital Condolences
"When my father passed away, the outpouring of love was immense, but so was the unsolicited advice and criticism," Ishitta revealed. She described receiving messages that ranged from questioning her grieving process to outright judgment about how she should mourn. "People felt entitled to tell me how to grieve, what to post, and when to post it."
Setting Boundaries in the Digital Space
Ishitta emphasized the importance of maintaining personal boundaries, even while being a public figure. "Grief is deeply personal. There's no rulebook, no right way to do it. The audacity of strangers thinking they can dictate how someone should process loss is both shocking and concerning."
When 'Support' Turns Toxic
The artist highlighted how seemingly supportive comments often masked deeper judgment. "Some would say, 'Be strong,' but what they really meant was 'Don't show your pain.' Others criticized me for sharing memories, saying it was 'too soon' or 'inappropriate.'"
Mental Health in the Age of Social Media
Ishitta's experience sheds light on the broader issue of mental health challenges exacerbated by social media. "We're living in times where everyone has an opinion about everything, even about how you should feel during your darkest hours. This constant scrutiny can be devastating for someone already dealing with loss."
Practical Steps to Combat Trolling
- Mute and block liberally: "Your mental peace comes first. Don't hesitate to use blocking features."
- Seek genuine support: "Connect with people who truly understand and respect your journey."
- Remember your reality: "Online comments don't define your relationship with your loved one or your grieving process."
A Message to Trolls and Well-Meaning Followers
Ishitta has a clear message for those who engage in such behavior: "Before you type that comment about someone's personal life, especially during difficult times, ask yourself: Would I say this to their face? If not, don't say it online."
She also urges well-meaning followers to practice empathy rather than judgment. "Instead of telling someone how to grieve, just be there for them. Sometimes silence and presence speak louder than words."
The Way Forward: Creating Healthier Online Spaces
Through her experience, Ishitta hopes to spark conversations about creating more compassionate digital communities. "We need to remember that behind every profile is a human being with real emotions, real pain, and real struggles. Let's use social media to lift each other up, not tear each other down."
Her powerful stance serves as an important reminder about the human cost of online toxicity and the urgent need for digital empathy in today's interconnected world.
