Still in shock over his friend Kushal Punjabi’s death, Arjun Bijlani advocates the need for having a good support system
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 30, 2019)

Actor Kushal Punjabi passed away on Friday leaving the TV industry reeling in shock. As per reports, the actor committed suicide. Arjun Bijlani, who was close to Kushal and had worked with him in the show Ishq Mein Marjawan, says he couldn’t believe it when he heard the news. “The last time I spoke to Kushal, he seemed fine. I guess, in the last few months, he was going through a rough time but I never thought he would take this step. He was a strong-headed, jovial and humble person. I don’t know how he lost his purpose in life,” says Arjun.

After learning that depression was possibly the reason behind this drastic step, Arjun hopes that people “wake up to mental health issues in India and treat depression as an illness”. “There should be more awareness about depression and help centers to aid those going through it. The world is becoming a tougher place to live in and I think a lot of things affect people which might lead to depression,” says Arjun.

Having worked in the entertainment industry for over 12 years, the actor admits that it is an unpredictable space. Arjun states, “For some people, it might be tough to handle life when fame and success fade away. Watching people who were praising you disappear, is a sad reality to handle. And not just disappear, but sometimes, the same people mock you for not having work, which is horrible. I have seen it happen at award functions and on reality shows. I feel broadcasters and writers should refrain from doing so as it really hurts people.”

Actors spend most of their lives on set and more often than not, most of them time live alone in the city, away from their loved ones. Arjun feels having a good support system is a must in this fast-paced world. “One should find happiness in other things apart from your career. Banking on family or friends is an essential requirement. People need to be more compassionate and understanding and listen to others when they come with a problem. Being a good listener is the least you can do for someone who needs support,” he concludes.