New Delhi: Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu has spoken candidly about the pressures of living her life under constant public scrutiny, saying that despite intense judgment and trolling, she continues to embrace vulnerability and authenticity as part of her personal growth.
Speaking at the NDTV World Summit, the Family Man star reflected on her life journey, which has unfolded entirely in the public eye—from her separation with Naga Chaitanya to her battle with Myositis, a rare autoimmune condition.
“Anyone who has followed my journey knows about my struggles — the separation, my illness — everything has been public. It comes with a lot of repercussions, a lot of trolling, and constant judgment for being open and vulnerable,” Samantha said.
The 38-year-old actor, known for acclaimed performances in Eega, Theri, Rangasthalam, and Mersal, said she doesn’t see authenticity as a destination but as an ongoing process. “I don’t have my life sorted, but I’m able to speak about it. I’m not perfect; I might make mistakes, I might stumble, but I’m trying to be better,” she added.
Samantha also discussed the negative impact of social media, noting how constant exposure to the luxurious lifestyles of the ultra-wealthy can make ordinary people feel inadequate. “Someone in a small village today can see how the top one per cent of the world lives. That kind of access can be demotivating,” she observed.
She urged celebrities and influencers to act responsibly online. “At a time when we have such visibility, it’s crucial to use that platform with responsibility,” she said.
Reflecting on her early life, Samantha recalled her humble beginnings before rising to fame with her debut film Ye Maaya Chesave (2010). “My family struggled to put food on the table, and suddenly, I became a star overnight. There was fame, applause, and wealth — but I didn’t know how to handle it. Authenticity comes from your upbringing, and if you’re not balanced with that, there’s turmoil,” she said.
She concluded by saying that ambition must always be paired with purpose and responsibility, advising the youth to choose their mentors wisely. “The right mentor can shape your dreams, your mental health, and how you deal with failures,” she said.