It is very rare to find someone who is not inclined to pursue visibility in an industry where external validation plays a significant role. But Parakh Madan, who is seen in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (season 2), is that for you? She understands how social media works but does not want its metrics to define her.
Striking a Balance
She said, "As an actor, you are constantly caught between two opposing forces: the industry's need for you to be visible, relatable, and active on social media and your own human need to protect the sanctity of your real life. I enjoy keeping my fans and followers informed about my professional activities, but I never post solely to compete or seek external validation. I rarely post about my personal life because that space is sacred to me."
Impact of Social Media
She is not aware of the effects that social media has on people who use it without those boundaries in place. She said, "Social media has subtly, and sometimes aggressively, rewired how we measure our own worth. And as an artist, you feel this pressure intensely. The industry often equates your visibility or your following with your relevance. The moment we rely on the public domain to validate our choices, our hard work, or our happiness, we give away our power."
"If a thousand strangers clapping makes you feel successful, then a few quiet days or a lack of digital noise can make you feel invisible. That is an incredibly fragile way to live," she added.
Self-Validation Over External Approval
While Parakh admits that she is not getting constantly influenced by opinions of people on social media, she knows where to draw a distinction. She said, "As an artist, when a stranger connects with a character you play or appreciates your craft, it feels wonderful. That acknowledgement is a beautiful part of the job. But the only validation that genuinely sustains you through the highs and lows of a creative career, and life in general, is the one you give yourself."
"Being proud of the work you put in, having solid real-world relationships, and being able to sit quietly with yourself in perfect peace at the end of the day are the things that truly matter to me," she added.
The Addiction of Scrolling
And regarding scrolling, she calls it an addiction. "I think unlimited scrolling is one of the most silent, insidious drains on our mental peace today. It is designed to be an addiction, and if we aren't hyper-vigilant, it completely strips away our capacity for contentment. If we don't put boundaries on it, we end up letting a screen dictate our moods, our desires, and our peace of mind," Parakh ended.
