Ayushmann Khurrana shares his views about social media, says it offers a reality check

(L-R) Ayushmann Khurrana, Amitabh Bachchan, and Sara Ali Khan on the show. Pic/By Special Arrangement

Movies, acting, and social media were discussed on the hot seat as Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan shot for an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 18 with megastar-host Amitabh Bachchan last week. Even as the veteran actor is active on social media and enjoys interacting with his fans online, he reflected that it influences how artistes are perceived. He said, "What is written or read [about us] on social media, we are often judged and respected [on its basis]. How do you protect yourselves from it?"

Khurrana shared that he doesn't view social media as an opposing force. To him, online chatter offers a reality check. "Sir, such things used to happen earlier too. Whatever used to be discussed in a corner of a street or at a tea stall in the 1970s is simply visible now. You can ignore it and focus on your own work. But sometimes, listening to criticism about yourself online can help you improve. We are surrounded by yes-men, so [online chatter] gives us a reality check at times," he said.

His Udta Teer co-star Khan, however, had a different take. Detachment to her was key, as she said, "Whatever is written about [me] on social media, I read it all, but at the same time, [I] take it out of my mind. Whether positive or negative things are written, take it lightly."