We still discourage individual thought: Kalki Koechlin on mob mentality

Agencies
August 15, 2018

New Delhi, Aug 15:  Kalki Koechlin says mob mentality continues to thrive in India as independent thought is not given an environment to flourish in, something that can only change with education.

With incidents of lynching and vandalism on the rise, the actor feels there is no state of "social security" in the country.

"We have no social security. There is no system that's protecting us actually. Everybody is each to their own here. No government force is going to come and help you... There's so much population that it's difficult to provide services to all. 

"I think that makes people communal. We still discourage the individual (thought). It's still hard to find that individual voice. Take education for that matter - we still mug up, rather than thinking for ourselves. There's also this ignorance of 'the other'. We are fine within our groups. That's something that can only change with education," Koechlin told PTI in an interview.

The 34-year-old actor has explored the life of young Indian adults in the 21st century in the new BBC World Services podcast, "Kalki Presents: My Indian Life".

Bringing stories about "young Indians for young Indians" together, she says taking up the project was an eye-opening experience for her and helped her find different realities that make the country beautiful.

She firmly believes that the youth will have to lead by example to change things for the better.

"This was the first time I was doing a podcast. I got to know a lot about different people. I used to think I'm very knowledgeable and liberated. But even on social media, you follow the people you want to follow... So you kind of live in your bubble. When I see where these people come from... backgrounds starkly different from my thinking...

"When we listen to those stories, we realise we are not alone and that person who might have the opposite view might actually have a very similar personal point of view..." she says.

Known for speaking her mind, the actor-activist believes one's political outlook stems from their personal experiences and a change in the point of view overtime is natural progression.

"Whatever strong political opinion we have ultimately come from some experience, upbringing... where something was lacking, dissatisfying has made us feel this way...

"There's a thing about opinions... They are formulated over time. They tend to change with time and you are going to change your mind many times. (In student politics), so many of them are immediately slotted for their views. Even they feel a responsibility to stick to 'this political spectrum'. They are unable to speak up as there is so much backlash and vehemence. They fear if they change their stand, they will be called fickle." 

Koechlin, however, believes that today the country's youth is more independent and does not lead a "double life", unlike the earlier generations.

"They no longer feel the need to hide things from their parents. We are quite open about our choices. Our future depends a lot on how we are going to express ourselves... We are finally ready to take the responsibility of our independence.

"We haven't been doing that too much. We have been like 'This is freedom, we have it but now what do we do with it for our country?" she says.

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News Network
June 10,2020

Mumbai, Jun 10: Bollywood actors Sushant Singh Rajput and Varun Sharma's former manager Disha Salian reportedly committed suicide by jumping off the 14th floor of her apartment in Malad on June 8 night.

Varun Sharma mourned the demise on Instagram, sharing a photo with his former manager and friend.

"Am at a loss of words. Speechless. Numb. It all looks unreal. So many memories. Such a lovely person and a dear friend. You always wore that smile everyday, and with such kindness you dealt with everything that came your way. You will be deeply missed. Prayers and Strength to the Family. I still can't believe Disha you're gone. Gone too Soon," wrote Varun.

The young celebrity manager was reportedly with her fiance when she took the drastic step on June 8 night. She was declared dead on being rushed to a hospital in Borivali.

The police have started an investigation. As per reports, they have recorded the statement of the deceased's parents. Her fiance might also be asked for a statement.

Apart from Sushant Singh Rajput and Varun Sharma, Disha has managed comedian Bharti Singh in the past.

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News Network
July 2,2020

Mumbai, Jul 2: The Mumbai police have summoned noted filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali for questioning in connection with the Sushant Singh Rajput suicide case. According to several reports, casting director Shanoo Sharma too might be questioned in connection with the star’s death.

Reports also state that Kangana Ranaut and Shekhar Kapur, who are not directly involved with the investigation, are likely to be asked to record their statements.

The development comes days after the cops had asked for the details of SSR’s contract with Yashraj Films. The MS Dhoni actor had starred in Shuddh Desi Romance and Detective Byomkesh Bakshi, which were backed by the banner. He was supposed to team up with YRF for Paani, directed by Kapur, but the movie was on hold due to creative differences between the Mr India helmer and the production house.

Sushant died by suicide on June 14, leaving his near and dear ones in a state of shock. Following his demise, fans alleged that several Bollywood biggies had tried to sabotage his career as he was an ‘outsider’, reigniting the nepotism debate.

SSR, who hailed from Patna, made an impact in the TV industry before entering Bollywood with the sleeper hit Kai Po Che. He impressed fans with his performances in PK and Shuddh Desi Romance, consolidating his standing in the industry. It was, however, MS Dhoni that established him as a bankable star. Chhichore was his last theatrical release before his death. Drive, backed by Karan Johar, released directly on Netflix. His last film Dil Bechara is slated to release on Disney+ Hotstar on July 24.

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News Network
January 8,2020

Jan 8: Bollywood star Deepika Padukone on Tuesday visited the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to express solidarity with the students who were attacked by a mob, but she did not address the crowd.

The actor reached the university campus at around 7.40 pm and attended a public meeting, called by JNU Teacher's Association and JNUSU in response to Sunday's attack on students and teachers by a masked mob armed with sticks and rods.

Deepika stood as former JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar was raising azaadi slogans and left by the time current president Aishe Ghosh started speaking.

The actor's decision to not address the crowd prompted Ghosh to comment, "when you are in a position, you should speak up".

"There are many people in Bollywood who do not put forth their views when they are not be aired. They are considered role models. I appeal to them: Make inspiring films after something has happened but when you are in that position, also talk about the story that is currently happening," she said.

Later, Ghosh said that Deepika expressed solidarity with the JNU students.

Deepika is in the capital to promote her upcoming release, Meghna Gulzar-directed "Chhapaak".

On Monday, the 34-year-old actor told a news channel that she feels proud that people have come out and raised their voice without fear, in reference to the protests against the amended Citizenship Act, the National Register of Citizens and violence in JNU.

"I feel proud to see that we aren't scared to express ourselves... I think the fact that we are thinking about the country and its future.... Whatever may be our point of view, it's nice to see," Deepika told NDTV India.

"I feel proud about it that people are coming out -- be it on the streets or wherever they are -- they are raising their voice and expressing themselves as it is important. If we want to see a change in life and society, it is important that a point of view be put forward," she added.

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