Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty recently shared his traditional views on marriage, parenting, and how mental health was perceived in his younger days, sparking considerable discussion.
Traditional Takes on Modern Marriage
Suniel Shetty, reflecting on his four decades in the film industry and his marriage to Mana Shetty, voiced his discomfort with how marital dynamics have shifted for the current generation.
He believes that marriage eventually becomes a “compromise” where partners must understand and live for each other. Shetty lamented what he sees as a lack of patience among today’s youth, suggesting it impacts their ability to sustain long-term relationships.
On Wives, Husbands, and Children
During his conversation, Shetty articulated specific roles he perceives for spouses, particularly after children enter the picture. He stated that it’s important for a wife to understand she will be primarily looking after the child if the husband is focused on building his career.
While acknowledging that the husband will also be involved, his emphasis remained on the wife’s primary responsibility in childcare. He suggested that modern life places a lot of pressure on all aspects of relationships.
The Digital Age’s Influence on Relationships
Shetty also touched upon the impact of the digital age on relationship expectations. He noted that the virtual world constantly offers advice on everything from parenting to lifestyle choices, which he believes can distort reality.
He advocated for learning from real-life experiences and family elders like grandmothers, mothers, and in-laws, rather than relying solely on online information. Shetty observed that this shift has led to instances of couples divorcing even before their wedding takes place.
Controversial Remarks on “Depression”
In a candid moment, Suniel Shetty shared his perspective on mental health from his youth. He recounted a time when he felt no concept of “depression” existed, describing a more straightforward approach to emotional distress.
He humorously, yet controversially, suggested that a “smack from mom” would often resolve any feelings of being down or “depressed” in his era. He contrasted this with modern individuals who might retreat to their rooms, implying a difference in resilience or coping mechanisms.
A Surprising Contradiction: The Mental Health App
Despite his seemingly dismissive comments on depression from his past, Suniel Shetty has actively engaged with mental health initiatives in recent times. In 2023, he launched an app called ‘Let’s Get Happi’.
This app aims to provide round-the-clock access to real-time therapy, addressing the need for affordable, inclusive, and stigma-free mental health care. This venture suggests a more nuanced or evolving understanding of mental well-being than his earlier remarks might indicate.
- Suniel Shetty believes modern marriages lack patience and are complicated by digital age advice.
- He emphasized traditional gender roles where wives primarily care for children while husbands build careers.
- Shetty controversially stated that in his youth, “depression” was handled with a “smack from mom.”
- Despite these remarks, he launched a mental health app in 2023, offering accessible therapy.
Shetty’s comments highlight a generational gap in perspectives on relationships, parenting, and mental health, sparking debate on evolving societal norms.
