Avinash Wadhawan on International Youth Day: “I Believe One of the Biggest Challenges for the Youth Today Is the Pressure to Constantly Compare Themselves with Others”
Veteran actor Avinash Wadhawan shares valuable insights on International Youth Day, cautioning against unrealistic social media expectations, highlighting self-growth, and advocating for healthy digital habits.
Veteran film and television actor Avinash Wadhawan, widely recognized for his roles in classic hits like Junoon, Geet, and Balmaa, as well as acclaimed television shows such as Bidaai and Balika Vadhu, recently shared his thoughts on the occasion of International Youth Day. Reflecting on the evolving pressures confronting the younger generation, Wadhawan highlighted the importance of self-belief, resilience, and maintaining healthy boundaries with technology.
Offering advice to his younger self, Wadhawan stressed that mistakes and failures are essential stepping stones toward long-term growth. He emphasized that success should never be equated with flawless perfection, but rather with steady consistency and a steadfast adherence to personal values. He urged young individuals to avoid comparing their individual career trajectories with those around them, advising them instead to focus on daily self-improvement and kindness.
Addressing the primary hurdles faced by modern youth, Wadhawan identified the psychological toll of continuous social media comparison as a major concern. He noted that digital platforms predominantly showcase curated highlights of people's lives, cultivating unrealistic expectations regarding beauty, achievement, and happiness. This constant exposure can quietly erode self-worth, confidence, and overall mental well-being, making it vital for youth to seek internal fulfillment rather than online validation.
Regarding digital consumption, Wadhawan clarified that social media in itself is a neutral tool, with its impact depending entirely on how consciously it is used. He advocated for establishing daily screen-time limits, taking regular digital detoxes, and redirecting energy toward physical exercise, reading, pursuing hobbies, and spending meaningful time with family and friends.
Concluding his perspective, Wadhawan called for a collective effort among parents, educational institutions, and technology firms to foster responsible digital habits. He asserted that technology should ultimately serve as an instrument for learning, creativity, and genuine connection, rather than an omnipresent force dictating daily life.
