Television and film actor Smriti Kalra, recognized for her work in shows like 12/24 Karol Bagh, Surveen Guggal, and Dil Sambhal Jaa Zara, as well as movies such as Kaagaz 2, Cash, and Darran Chhoo, is passionately using her platform to drive social change. The actor recently participated in a significant initiative focused on celebrating the girl child and promoting mental health awareness among children and adolescents.
A Personal Journey of Giving Back
Reflecting on her motivation, Smriti Kalra shared a glimpse into her personal philosophy. She recalled that as a child, when asked about her future aspirations, her consistent answer was simply to "be me." She explained that this core identity has always been that of a giver. "Life is not only about what the world offers you, but also about what you give back," she stated. For her, involvement in social causes is a natural extension of her personality. She emphasized that giving back can manifest in numerous ways, including acts of kindness, sharing skills, providing education, dedicating time, or offering compassion.
Taking a Stand Against Child Marriage
One of the critical issues Smriti addressed during the event was child marriage, a cause she feels deeply about. While acknowledging existing laws against the practice, she stressed the urgent need for stronger implementation and sustained awareness campaigns. "Education and empowerment are crucial," she asserted. Her focus is on building mental and emotional resilience in children so they can recognize harmful situations and know how to seek help, whether for themselves or their peers.
The Mental Health Challenge in a Digital Age
Shifting focus to adolescent well-being, Smriti Kalra highlighted the paramount importance of mental health in today's world. She pointed to the dominance of social media and technology as a key factor. "Our minds are constantly overstimulated, leading to anxiety, depression, comparison, and self-doubt," she noted. She also linked reduced physical activity, a consequence of technological dependence, to declining emotional wellbeing.
During her interactions with young volunteers, she made a concerted effort to debunk the illusions of social media. "What we see online is not the complete truth. It is only a glimpse, not a full picture," she cautioned. She explained that consuming information primarily through sight can be misleading. Her advice was clear: avoid comparisons and do not let curated online personas affect self-worth. "Life should be experienced beyond devices, in the real world," she concluded, advocating for a more balanced and mindful engagement with technology.
