Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has recently voiced his frustration with the constant scrutiny and criticism he faces, lamenting the endless stream of advice and judgments that come his way. In a recent blog post, the actor shared his feelings about being told what to do, how to behave, and even when to speak or remain silent. This outpouring comes amidst a climate where celebrities are increasingly under pressure to express opinions on various social and political issues, often facing backlash regardless of their stance.
Bachchan, a prolific user of social media, conveyed his annoyance with the constant feedback he receives, ranging from trivial matters like his signature style to more significant aspects of his public persona. He wrote about being told to change his signature, to avoid certain places, and to tailor his behavior to meet the expectations of others. He highlighted the Catch-22 situation he often finds himself in: "when you talk they say why do you talk... when you do not talk they say why you do not talk."
This isn't the first time Bachchan's social media activity, or lack thereof, has drawn criticism. Recently, he faced backlash for a cryptic tweet posted amidst a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. While other celebrities expressed condolences and condemned the attack, Bachchan's ambiguous post was perceived by many as a sign of indifference, leading to accusations of insensitivity and a lack of empathy. This incident underscores the intense pressure celebrities face to respond appropriately to current events and the potential for misinterpretation in the age of instant communication.
Adding to the complexity, Bachchan has also been targeted for his views, or perceived lack thereof, on other sensitive topics. Some social media users have criticized him for remaining silent on issues they believe he should address, while others have scrutinized his statements, finding fault with his choice of words or perceived alignment with certain ideologies.
In his blog post, Bachchan sought solace and guidance in the teachings of his late father, the renowned poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan. He shared lines of poetry that emphasized the importance of living life with passion and maintaining meaningful relationships, while also learning to navigate the world with grace and equanimity. He reflected on his father's wisdom, stating that he had learned "how to live life, from the seas and oceans; to flow quietly and to exist in your own ardor your own avidity and zest."
Bachchan's expression of frustration reflects a broader challenge faced by public figures in the digital age. The constant connectivity and the pervasive nature of social media have created an environment where every action and statement is subject to scrutiny and potential criticism. Celebrities are expected to be not only entertainers but also role models, activists, and commentators on current events. This expectation can be overwhelming, leading to a sense of being constantly judged and constrained.
Despite the criticism, Bachchan remains one of India's most beloved and respected actors. He continues to engage with his fans through social media, sharing updates on his work and offering glimpses into his personal life. While he may be weary of the constant judgment, his willingness to remain connected to his audience suggests a commitment to his role as a public figure, even amidst the challenges it entails.