Shruti Seth wonders why people are sad about ageing: ‘Has nobody read science?’

Q: You’ve been a part of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. How would you describe your journey?

Shruti Seth: It’s been magical, satisfying, extremely fulfilling, and surprisingly long!

Q: Despite your varied work, you are almost always associated with ‘Shararat.’ Does this bother you, by any chance?

Shruti Seth: It is the biggest gift the universe could have given me. I don’t think many people have the good fortune of being recognised, loved, and appreciated for their work for so many years and for so long. I feel very grateful when people tell me Shararat is one of their core childhood memories, always reminding them of a very happy time.

Q: Have you ever felt stereotyped?

Shruti Seth: I wouldn’t say I’ve been typecast, but yes, I fit a certain character very easily, so people probably find it more convenient to consider me for such parts. And it happens to everyone very cyclically throughout their careers. I’m thankful I’ve had the chance to play different roles in various stories across various genres and, of course, work with some incredibly talented people.

 

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Q: You are also a mental wellness coach. Why did you feel the need to take a certification in that field?

Shruti Seth: I always felt drawn towards self-inquiry and figuring out a larger purpose. I wanted to understand why we behave a certain way, get stuck in certain patterns, have a hard time breaking out of these patterns, and why so many of us contribute to our suffering without realising. What started as a self-inquiry exercise eventually turned into something that I wanted to pursue, not just for myself, but hopefully to help and heal others as well.

So, I wanted to ensure that I got the right kind of education, certification, licenses, and things that would legitimise my role as a mental wellness coach. I think it just came from a place of being ethical and responsible.

Q: Despite so much being done, written, and spoken about, do you feel enough conversations about mental health happen in India? If not, what do you think are the probable reasons?

Shruti Seth: Mental health is still a relatively new concept in India and often misunderstood. People tend to focus on mental illness rather than mental health, which is as important as physical health. Educating individuals on maintaining mental well-being, regulating emotions, and breaking harmful behavioural patterns is essential. Thanks to online communities on apps like Coto, conversations around mental health are becoming accessible even to the most remote parts of the country.

In India, mental health is often seen as a luxury, with people prioritising basic needs over self-care. They don’t understand that if they are mentally sound, healthy, happy, and calm, their overall quality of life will improve. We need to try to change people’s mindsets so that they give mental health the same importance as physical health. I also hope this conversation can be taken to areas with limited access.

It is also important to make people understand that our brains can be rewired to break old patterns. It is only when their behaviour starts hurting them or getting in the way of their well-being that people try to recognise and change it.

Q: How important is self-care for you? How do you ensure you take our ‘me-time’ for yourself? What do you do in such times?

Shruti Seth: For me, self-care means being in environments that keep my mind at ease, body relaxed, and make me feel strong and hopeful. While activities like massages or retreats are helpful, the key is self-awareness—understanding what nourishes my soul and what drains my energy. Spending time alone, reflecting, and identifying what brings joy is the best form of self-care.

 

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Q: You are also extremely particular about your fitness. How has your exercise routine evolved with age?

Shruti Seth: I enjoy staying physically fit. Yoga is something I have connected with at a very “cellular level”. It gives me strength, balance, and calm. I also do light strength training, which is important for women, especially as they approach menopause. The key is to keep moving, whether through yoga, strength training, or simply walking. Even a daily walk, without distractions, benefits both body and mind.

Q: You have a young daughter. What are the most important things you must teach her as she grows older?

Shruti Seth: The most important lesson I can teach my daughter is to love and accept herself and recognise healthy habits from toxic traits. I encourage her to treat others how she wants, always opting for kindness, even when it’s not the easiest choice. I remind her that everyone is just trying to find their way in this journey, and if she can’t ease others’ pain, at least don’t add to it. This simple advice is something I hope she carries with her throughout life.

Q: The biggest lesson parenting has taught you.

Shruti Seth: Parenting has taught me to know myself truly. It motivated me to change and become a better role model, teaching my child through actions, not just words. It has also taught me patience, acceptance, and a unique, deep love unlike any other.

 

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Q: Social media: a boon or a bane, and why?

Shruti Seth: Tough question, but I would say both, depending on how we use it. It is important to be aware of what it brings to our lives and what it takes. While it connects us superficially, I feel my relationships were a lot more fulfilling, richer, deeper, and more meaningful before social media. I don’t think social media can ever replace the real and more vibrant part of my life, but it does its job, and that’s what it is. It is just a tool to enhance connection, but real connection remains a valuable skill.

Q: What is your take on ageism in the Indian entertainment industry? Have you ever been subjected to it?

Shruti Seth: Ageism is a problem worldwide, but has a lot more presence in the entertainment industry. It’s annoying. But, I also don’t understand why people are sad about ageing—it’s a natural part of life. Has nobody read science? Did nobody know how evolution works? We grow and change; no one stays the same forever. Every stage of life brings something new and exciting.