Sharmin Segal responds to trolling, says, audience ‘ka haqq banta hai’; tips to deal with incessant criticism

Heeramandi actor Sharmin Segal has been facing incessant trolling for the last few weeks. The actor, who is the niece of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, has been accused of nepotism and favouritism.

In a recent interview, Segal broke her silence on the issue. Talking about how the audience is ‘one of the most important parts of a creative person’s journey,’ she said, “Hum saunp dete hai apna kaam. Unka haq banta hai to say what they want to say. (We hand over our work to the public and it’s their right).”

Sharmin added that the audience’s point of view is very important to her, “I’m creating for you so I’m very open to constructive criticism.”

Dr Mazher Ali, Consultant-Psychiatrist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, agreed, saying that as movie professionals who depend on audience support and acceptance – constrictive criticism plays an important role. Constructive criticism also helps in embracing new roles and undertaking new challenges, which can prove as a huge milestone in their careers.

The actor, who plays Alamzeb on the Netflix show, added in the interview with Instant Bollywood that she’s not letting the negativity overpower her. “With the negativity comes a lot of positivity also, both of them go hand in hand. There’s been so much love also. Hum log ek negative cheez pe fixate kar lete hai and then we miss out on all the positive things that come along with it.”

Sharmin, who happens to be director Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s niece, shared that she has also been receiving love and appreciation.

Dr Ali explained that this level of criticism can have an adverse negative effect on anyone’s mental health.

“This phenomenon will affect the self-esteem of a person. One may also experience social anxiety and body dysmorphia. Trolls pointing out your body features or other aspects of your personality may also cause insecurity and trigger suppressed emotions. It may also push individuals into a bad cycle of substance abuse as a way of escapism. Eating disorders, depression and even suicide may be the outcome of harsh trolling,” Dr Ali said.

Some ways to deal with incessant criticism and trolling include –

• Go on a social media detox, for a few days or weeks
• Try not to compulsively read the comments and reply to them
• Try blocking or reporting accounts that are abusive or negative
• Spend time with your loved ones and seek their support
• Believe in yourself and understand that other’s perspectives do not overshadow your hard work
• Restrict comments or certain keywords in your social media account

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