Aadrita Chatterji

All of us know someone who celebrates their favourite film star’s birthday at home. The said star doesn’t even know that they exist.

We call it hero worship. Psychologists call it the Celebrity Worship Syndrome. As people of the world, we are always drawn to a superior power. We call it Gods and Goddesses. Others who don’t believe in deities call it Nature. Moving forward, they call it the power of the Universe. Rarely has man believed in their own capabilities, perspectives and actions. When it comes to God Himself, we Indians are known for the bhakti tradition. Somewhere along the way, our love for deities, nature and the universe has transformed into an idolisation of celebrities.

In India, Celebrities Are Equal To God

Hero worship has always existed in our country, mostly dedicated to film and television stars, social media influencers, politicians and sportsmen. We say sportsmen, because sportswomen are still not respected and valued enough in our society. The story goes that most celebrities in our parents’ generation were not so easily accessible. Most of them travelled during discreet hours in equally discreet vehicles, and they were not constantly followed by the media. Today, both the star and their audience are on social media, making them seem closer yet distant.

Let us not judge the people who chose their celebrities, usually from their fields of passion. Even otherwise, people do like to know about how their favourite stars live their lives. Jaya Bhaduri’s Guddi (1971) explores the same theme, taking the audience through her innocent infatuation with Dharmendra, little knowing what he shows beyond the screen. By the end of the movie, she has learnt her lesson and can now understand that her idol, after all, is a human being with flaws like anyone else.

The downside of my celebrity is that I cannot go anywhere in the world without being recognised. It is not enough for me to wear dark sunglasses and a wig. The wheelchair gives me away.

Stephen Hawking

Our Admiration Slowly Becomes An Obsession

So, when does curiosity turn into blind devotion? One might liken the slow progression to attraction, connection and falling in love. We have seen people building temples for their favourite celebrities to honour and commemorate their larger-than-life personality. Though it sounds mindboggling, to keep it polite, to the outsider, it is a huge waste of time and energy that could have been better spent elsewhere. What begins as respectful admiration, even adoration, becomes an unquestioning devotion, which in turn demotes our sense of self and intelligence.

The problem begins when we, the audience, refuse to see them as human beings but as Gods. We start celebrating their special moments, pick internet battles and buy merchandise that they advertise. Shah Rukh Khan’s Fan (2016) explores the media-heavy and obsessive side of fandom, unlike the sweetness of Guddi. Khan plays a dual role as film star Aryan Khan and his fan, Gaurav Chandna. While Gaurav ultimately loses his life in revenge, Aryan is forever haunted by his last actions. That is when we remember that celebrities have a mind, heart and conscience as well.

What begins as respectful admiration, even adoration, becomes an unquestioning devotion, which in turn demotes our sense of self and intelligence.

Aadrita Chatterji

Let’s Be Honest: Nobody Cares About You

Occasionally, we see celebrities speaking to their audience on talk shows, at meet-and-greets, and at press conferences. They are not there because they genuinely enjoy our attention; they are there to promote their movies, sports and political ambitions. They are, after all, professionals who do their jobs and go home at the end of the day. Our devotion becomes a way for them to earn more money and fame through successful endeavours, which doesn’t benefit the audience in any way. They live in stardom, yes, but their commitment remains to their loved ones. Not you.

Today, we must use our critical thinking skills more intentionally. Much of what they say and do is part of a public relations strategy, which is why one must take their opinions on complex socio-economic and political topics with a pinch of salt. Of course, some celebrities do speak on current affairs with intelligence and sensitivity. Even then, we must not accept them as the gospel truth. They are, after all, flawed human beings. Instead, choose to appreciate their art but maintain a respectful distance from their on-screen persona. Do your own research to form opinions on what is important.

As human beings, we want to belong. So, what does one do when they want a community? Instead of making celebrities the centre of your universe, make time and effort for the ones who do matter the most to you. Build deeper relationships with your family, friends and the local community. Admire your favourite stars, yes. It’s far more useful, healthier and impactful to be where your presence and voice are actually heard.

Less emotional investment, more enjoyment is the key.