Kajol on Social Media Trolling: A Reality of Fame

Bollywood superstar Kajol, known for her powerful performances and candid personality, recently opened up about the downsides of social media, particularly the rampant trolling that public figures often face. In an interview with The Indian Express, Kajol shared her personal experiences and how she navigates the complexities of being in the limelight in the digital age.

Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword

Reflecting on her relatively recent entry into the world of social media, Kajol expressed gratitude for having lived most of her life away from the constant scrutiny. “I am thankful that I lived a whole life without social media,” she said, acknowledging how her career began long before platforms like Instagram and Twitter became central to public life. The Lust Stories 2 actress, who joined social media just six years ago, emphasized that social media is not a true reflection of real life.

“You’ll see my photo on the red carpet, but you won’t see that I woke up at 5 am to get ready, came back at 11.30 pm exhausted, and the next morning, I’m back to work,” Kajol explained. Her words offer a glimpse into the reality behind the glamorous snapshots that often dominate social media feeds. The actress highlighted that social media users only see a fraction of her day, the moments when she’s smiling for the camera, but the hard work, exhaustion, and everyday struggles are left unseen.

The Toll of Trolling

Kajol, who has faced her share of trolling, especially during the release of her debut web show The Trial, acknowledges the darker side of social media fame. The relentless scrutiny that comes with being a public figure, she believes, is part and parcel of the job. “When people love you so much, they also feel they have the right to hate you that much,” she said, acknowledging the intense emotional investment fans have in their favorite celebrities. While Kajol does not condone the harshness of online comments, she understands that it’s an unfortunate consequence of public life.

Balancing Fame and Reality

For Kajol, the key to dealing with this ‘beast’ is perspective. Despite the negativity, she maintains a balanced view: “We have good and bad days, and yet, when you post, you’re smiling.” Her approach to social media is refreshingly honest—acknowledging that while the glamorous posts may garner attention, they don’t represent the full picture of her life.

Kajol’s insight offers a powerful reminder that while social media can connect celebrities with their fans, it also exposes them to criticism. However, her resilience and balanced outlook serve as an inspiration to many, showing that even in the face of online hostility, staying true to oneself is the best way forward.