Jitendra on Sushant’s death: Let’s not blame the industry
After actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death, social media has become a battleground as many debate whether Bollywood’s nepotistic climate wronged him and didn’t give him his due, pushing him to take this drastic step. But actor Jitendra Kumar says it’s not fair on anyone’s part to blame the film industry.
“First of all, it’s sad and shocking. It’s not about the film industry, this is a problem everywhere. I feel the film industry is more visible and exposed, so it’s more out there,” he opines.
However, the Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan actor feels that it’s indeed sad when people are forced to take such extreme steps, and asserts that sharing is what will help ease any such pain. “It’s alarming. As an industry, we should take care of each other, look out for one another. If, in any case, we feel that something is off, we must share it. It’s all about connection and connectivity. We do neglect a lot of things in general — we don’t talk to family, friends or siblings. We must reach out,” he explains.
Stressing the importance of mental health, the actor says that success and money are secondary. “First comes health, both physical and mental. It’s important to involve people in your life and keep yourself happy. Help people and help yourself,” says the actor.
An IIT Kharagpur alumni, the actor says instances of stress and depression are also prevalent in educational institutions, but steps are being taken to tackle the issues, and the film industry should also take such measures. “When I was studying there, many cases of depression came to light. But strong actions were taken by the institutes via campaigns, internal dialogue and channels to help students. Mental health should not be a stigma. People coming out and seeking help is a great achievement in itself. If mental health is taken care of, everything else falls in place,” he says.