Suniel Shetty recently attended the launch of the world’s first mental health app with 24x7 access to psychologists. The actor spoke to us about the importance of mental health care, as well as his closeness to his family.
How people of your age-group handle stress?
The mantra is simple — we are old school— we follow traditions. We are less literate when it comes to tech. We wish people. We believe in eating enough, leaving our-selves a little hungry. We believe in morning walks, yoga and home-cooked food. All these things matter when things are at their worst. But when your habits are not right, things become tough.
The young generation seems to find it difficult to cope with setbacks! We should first break gender stereotypes — Mard ko yeh karna chahiye, aurat ko woh.This whole lifestyle of late nights and not getting enough sleep should be stopped. These kids are in front of the screen at all hours, and then they are grumpy in the morning. I think till they are10 years old you shouldn’t allow them to watch TV or operate computers, so they have time fort h e m s e l v e s .The young generation should do simple things like g a r d e n i n g , waking up early, and cultivate civic sense. If you care about things around, you will start caring about your-self automatically.
You have close ties with your family. Does that make you feel more secure?
I have always been open and vocal about my marriage and things in my life. My wife Mana always holds my hand when I’m unwell or feeling low. I think physical touch is very important. It shows when someone loves you and wishes you well. Little things matter.
Does Athiya miss that family closeness?
No, as a matter of fact, we are closer, as we live next door to each other. If I don’t make eight calls to Athiya everyday, my day hasn’t even begun. My wife looks at me and says,‘You are talking to your d a u g h t e r . ’ Likewise with Ahan — I am a friend and a father to him. Talking to your dear ones puts a glow on your face.My children, my mother, my wife are most important in my life. When I’m low, I miss the strength of my father. As the saying goes, Pita ka haath hota hai toh sab accha hota hai. Also when he is there, you feel you are not the head of the family, you feel less responsible.
What message would you like to give Athiya and Rahul?
I don’t need to give any message to Athiya. I t h i n k Athiya is blessed. I tell Rahul, you should always be the way you are.You are God’s gift to us and we are blessed
