India’s Youth Must Stop Worshiping Politicians and Film Actors: It's Time to Choose Real Role Models
It's Time to Choose Real Role Models
India is home to the world’s largest youth population. With over 600 million people under the age of 25, the country holds immense potential to lead the world in innovation, leadership, and social reform. Yet, this very strength is often undermined by an unhealthy obsession: the worship of politicians and film actors.
The Cult of Hero Worship
In India, hero worship is deeply embedded in the culture. Politicians are often treated like saviors, even when they fail to deliver on promises. Film stars are elevated to demigod status, with temples built in their names, birthdays celebrated like national events, and fan clubs spending lakhs of rupees just to show devotion.
This blind reverence diverts attention from real issues—unemployment, poor education infrastructure, environmental degradation, mental health, and corruption. It breeds a culture where critical thinking is replaced by emotional allegiance, and accountability is sacrificed at the altar of charisma.
Why It’s Dangerous
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It kills self-respect and independent thinking: Idolizing public figures often makes young people believe that their success is unattainable without fame, wealth, or political power. This robs them of confidence in their own potential.
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It diverts energy from real progress: Youth energy and activism should be directed toward solving problems, building businesses, promoting innovation, and uplifting the community—not spent organizing rallies or fan parades.
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It protects mediocrity and enables corruption: When politicians or actors are worshipped regardless of their actions, they are rarely held accountable. This leads to a cycle of poor governance and cultural shallowness.
The Need for Better Role Models
India doesn’t lack true heroes. Scientists like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, social reformers like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, entrepreneurs, teachers, soldiers, engineers, artists, and grassroots innovators are the ones truly shaping India’s future.
Why don’t we celebrate them with the same enthusiasm? Because they don’t offer us glamour—but they do offer something greater: substance, sacrifice, and inspiration.
What the Youth Must Do
- Stop glorifying fame over substance. Ask: What values does this person represent?
- Question, don’t just follow. Every politician and actor is a public servant or entertainer—not a god.
- Celebrate real impact. Share stories of scientists, environmentalists, startup founders, and educators who make a difference.
- Be the role model you’re looking for. India needs youth who build, solve, and lead—not just admire.
Final Thoughts
India stands at a critical crossroads. It can either continue to follow outdated patterns of blind hero worship, or it can embrace a future where the youth choose wisdom over charisma, service over stardom, and truth over illusion.
The choice is ours—and it begins by asking one simple question: Whom are we really worshiping, and why?
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