Vidya Balan, an acclaimed Indian actress, recently shared her insights on the growing religious polarization in India and the subsequent search for a sense of identity among its citizens. Balan emphasized that India, as a nation, did not have a religious identity in the past, but that is no longer the case.
According to Balan, individuals are actively seeking affiliations to define themselves, whether through religion or other influential movements. She highlighted the role of social media in exacerbating this polarization, noting that it has contributed to feelings of isolation and the desire to belong to something greater than oneself.
Balan further mentioned that despite her deep spirituality and regular religious practices, she prefers to direct her philanthropic efforts towards practical areas such as healthcare, sanitation, and education rather than religious institutions. She believes that these areas have a more tangible impact on improving people’s lives.
Balan also expressed caution regarding political commentary, citing fears of potential backlash and its impact on her film projects. She emphasized that actors are wary of engaging in political discussions due to the potential for offense and the risk of jeopardizing their work.
In conclusion, Vidya Balan’s observations shed light on the complex and evolving social landscape of India. She underscores the influence of social media in shaping societal trends and the ongoing search for identity, affiliation, and purpose among its citizens while also highlighting the importance of practical philanthropy and the challenges of navigating political commentary in the public eye.