Arjun Kapoor Opens Up About Mental Health, Obesity: ‘Nothing Wrong With Being Vulnerable’

Arjun Kapoor has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. He often shares his personal journey to inspire others. Recently, at the FICCI Young Leaders Summit in Mumbai, he discussed the challenges

of sudden fame, his battle with obesity, and the importance of prioritising mental well-being.

Arjun emphasised that embracing vulnerability is a sign of strength, not weakness, and encouraged everyone to seek help when needed.

Arjun Kapoor Reflects On Personal Loss And Life Challenges

As per a report in Free Press Journal, Arjun Kapoor revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic became a crucial turning point in his mental health journey. He explained that the global lockdown gave him “a moment of realisation,” making him confront years of neglect towards his emotional and mental well-being.

He also reflected on a deeply personal loss, the passing of his mother, Mona Shourie Kapoor, in 2012. The tragedy coincided with the release of his debut film Ishaqzaade, marking a time of conflicting emotions. “I was mourning and celebrating at the same time. I became a star overnight, but I was only running away from my pain,” Arjun admitted. This period, he said, highlighted how grief, sudden fame and personal struggles can intertwine, often leaving one overwhelmed.

The Long Journey of Losing 50 Kgs

Arjun Kapoor spoke about his struggle with obesity and the mental and physical battles involved in losing weight. “Losing 50 kilos took me four years. It was as much a mental battle as a physical one,” he revealed. While he acknowledged the unwavering support from his mother during this challenging period, he emphasised that many people lack such emotional or financial backing. “When you lose your backbone at 25, what can the world do to you?” he said.

Advocating Therapy And Mental Health Awareness

The actor took the opportunity to address young audiences directly, encouraging them to prioritise their mental health. He spoke about the stigma around therapy and vulnerability, stating, “There’s nothing wrong with being vulnerable.” He further elaborated that acknowledging emotions is a true mark of strength, not weakness. Arjun added that therapy offers a “safe outlet for expression, helping individuals feel empowered and sensible,” underlining its importance in fostering emotional well-being.

‘I Wasn’t Enjoying Regular Things’

Earlier in a conversation with India Today, Arjun revealed that despite experiencing professional success, he was struggling with his mental health during the release of Singham Again, where he played the character Danger Lanka. He said, “I was confused. I suddenly started developing tendencies like overthinking and a lack of motivation. I wasn’t enjoying regular things, like watching a film at night. I didn’t isolate myself—I reached out. I spoke to friends, family members and a therapist. I would like to say nobody should ever go into a shell alone.”

Embracing Vulnerability As A Sign Of Strength

Throughout his talk at FICCI Young Leaders Summit, Arjun emphasised the value of emotional honesty. He encouraged people to “wear their emotions with pride” and view vulnerability as a courageous act rather than a flaw. “People can be emotional and still be powerful,” he said, urging the audience to embrace their feelings while staying confident and empowered.

Career Highlights And Upcoming Projects

Arjun Kapoor was last seen in the film Mere Husband Ki Biwi earlier this year. Fans can look forward to his upcoming appearance in No Entry 2.