Bollywood actress Rhea Chakraborty, who has stayed away from the big screen for a significant period, has recently re-emerged into the public eye, not through films, but through her new podcast. In this venture, she has taken the opportunity to reflect on her life, particularly the tumultuous period following the tragic death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput in 2020.
Coping with Media Trials and Online Trolling
Sushant Singh Rajput’s sudden demise sent shockwaves throughout the film industry and the nation. Being his girlfriend at the time, Rhea found herself at the epicenter of the investigation, enduring intense media scrutiny and relentless trolling. In a candid interview with Humans of Bombay, Rhea shared the deep emotional and physical toll this period took on her, revealing how she struggled with stomach issues and acidity, which plagued her for three years.
“I never imagined that I could forgive anyone after what happened,” Rhea confessed. “But I realized that holding onto anger was only hurting me. I had to let go for my own peace of mind, even though it was incredibly difficult. Forgiveness became my way out of the pain.”
Learning to Forgive, but Not Forget
Despite her efforts to move on, Rhea admits that complete forgiveness is still a challenge. “If I’m honest, I haven’t forgiven everyone. There are still people on my hit list,” she stated. She hinted that if given the power in the future, she would seek to set things right.
This admission sheds light on the emotional scars that remain with Rhea, despite her attempts to heal. Her experience serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of public life, where individuals can be subjected to unwarranted vilification and intense scrutiny.
Rising Above the Trolls
Rhea also addressed the continued trolling she faces on social media. Since Sushant’s death, she has been the target of vicious online attacks, often labeled as a “witch” or a “black magician.” However, over time, Rhea has developed a thick skin.
“Earlier, it used to bother me a lot. I would wonder why people hate me so much. But then I realized it’s not about me; it’s about them and the hatred in their hearts. Now, I don’t let it affect me. In fact, trolls just increase the engagement on my posts,” she said, reflecting her newfound resilience.
Rumors and Personal Life
While Rhea has largely stayed out of the limelight, rumors about her personal life continue to swirl. She has been linked to businessman Nikhil Kamath, with the two recently being spotted together on a bike ride in Mumbai. When asked about her thoughts on marriage, Rhea shared her views on societal expectations and the pressure women face to marry.
“There is no right age for marriage. I don’t understand why there’s so much pressure on women to get married. Why don’t men face the same pressure? I’m at a stage where I don’t even want to think about marriage. I don’t believe that being someone’s wife is necessary for fulfillment,” she explained.
A New Chapter: Business and Podcasting
Stepping away from acting, Rhea has ventured into the business world by launching her own clothing brand. Additionally, she has found a new platform to express herself through her podcast, where she hosts discussions with prominent figures such as Sushmita Sen and Aamir Khan. This podcast has allowed her to reconnect with her audience on her terms, offering a glimpse into her thoughts and experiences post-Sushant’s tragic passing.
As Rhea Chakraborty navigates this new phase of her life, she continues to evolve, finding strength in forgiveness and resilience against the challenges that come her way. Her journey serves as an example of personal growth amidst adversity, as she redefines her path in both her personal and professional life.
