Smriti Kalra on social change and mental health: We need to create emotionally resilient children

Smriti Kalra, known for television shows such as 12/24 Karol Bagh, Surveen Guggal and Dil Sambhal Jaa Zara, and films including Kaagaz 2, Cash and Darran Chhoo, believes strongly in using her voice for social change. The actor recently supported an initiative focused on celebrating the girl child and advocating children’s mental health, where she engaged in conversations around pressing issues such as child marriage and emotional resilience.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Smriti shared, “While growing up, we are often asked who we want to be when we grow up. I always replied that I just wanted to be me. Over the years, as we evolve and change, the one thing that has remained constant for me is that I am a giver. Life is not only about what the world offers you, but also about what you give back. My involvement with social initiatives is simply an extension of who I am. Giving back can take many forms, through kindness, skills, education, time or compassion.”

Speaking about child marriage, a cause she feels deeply about, the actor said, “Although laws exist against child marriage, there is a need for stronger implementation and sustained awareness. Education and empowerment are crucial, so children are mentally and emotionally resilient and know how to seek help if they find themselves, or another child, in such a situation.”

Addressing the importance of mental health among adolescents and youth, Smriti noted, “Mental health today is of utmost importance. We live in an age where social media and technology dominate our lives. Our minds are constantly overstimulated, leading to anxiety, depression, comparison, and self-doubt. Physical activity has also reduced due to our dependence on technology, which further impacts emotional wellbeing.”

She added that during the event, she interacted closely with young volunteers to highlight the distorted reality of social media. “What we see online is not the complete truth. It is only a glimpse, not a full picture. We absorb information largely through one sense, our eyes, and that can be misleading. It is important not to compare or get affected by what is presented on screens. Life should be experienced beyond devices, in the real world,” she concluded.