Deepika advocates moderate use of social media

AS MULTIPLE BOLLYWOOD films are celebrating how weaknesses can be turned into strengths, Deepika Padukone says it is important for celebrities to use their place of influence and power to bring about change in society.

“I think it is extremely important for those who are in positions of influence or power to bring about social change. It is extremely important for them to speak up about whatever issue it might be,” Deepika said.

Deepika believes people can see if you do not have genuine connect or if it is not authentic.

“For many years, people always said, ‘You know you are successful, you should do work in social sectors as well or associate with an NGO’. There were so many options (for me), but I didn’t feel like I was being honest to them.

“It didn’t come naturally to me until I came across mental health, also because of my personal experience,” said the actress, who had earlier opened up about her battle with depression.

She feels speaking up for a cause has to be an “organic” process.

“I don’t think there is any fixed time as to when one should do it. I think you should do it when you feel it is right.”

Deepika along with her mother and younger sister launched a report on Public Perception Towards Mental Health in India by her foundation The Live Love Laugh Foundation (TLLLF), which aims to reduce the stigma around mental health.

The report’s findings indicate that a majority of people feel that mental illness is still considered a severe disorder like schizophrenia and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. IANS

My vision for the foundation is that we become the happiest country in the world.”

Deepika Padukone

At the end of the day, the only thing that matters to me is peace of mind.”

Deepika Padukone