Recently, Janhvi Kapoor discussed the emotional difficulties that arise from being under continuous public observation. During an appearance on Raj Shamani’s podcast, she expressed her feelings, stating, “People constantly attempt to take away my identity… I often felt that way. They say, ‘Oh, she looks good, but that’s not her; it’s plastic surgery.’ The opportunities I’ve received, the work I’ve done… they claim that’s not me, but due to nepotism, because of my mother… so what does that make me? I feel like a puppet, just a mannequin…?”
Her comments highlight a commonly shared yet frequently ignored struggle: the impact of having one’s identity persistently questioned, redefined, or dismissed by others. Dr. Pavitra Shankar notes that repeated invalidation of one’s sense of self can lead to significant psychological repercussions over time.
“When a person’s identity is constantly undermined or attributed to external factors, it can gradually diminish their self-trust,” Dr. Shankar explains.
This decline is not instantaneous. As time progresses, individuals may start doubting their own skills and worth, shifting from seeking internal affirmation to relying on external validation. “Such people eventually depend on others for their sense of worth. Their self-esteem becomes fragile because it is influenced by how others perceive them rather than being rooted in their own sense of identity,” Dr. Shankar adds.
Kapoor highlights that those in the spotlight are often labeled with terms such as “nepo kid,” “manufactured,” or “PR-trained.” Dr. Shankar points out that these labels can severely impact mental health:
“Being categorized in this way strips away dignity, reducing a person to a stereotype. It creates a gap between their true self and how they are viewed by the world.”
This gap can be emotionally draining. Over time, it may lead to feelings of estrangement or depersonalization, where individuals feel disconnected from their own identities. “This emotional detachment can manifest as a ‘mannequin effect,’ where individuals perceive themselves as mere representations rather than authentic, feeling beings,” she says.
Kapoor’s choice of the term “mannequin” is particularly poignant. “It signifies a state where someone feels like they are performing a version of themselves instead of living genuinely. This phenomenon is frequently seen in those who are under constant scrutiny, judgment, or misrepresentation,” Dr. Shankar explains.
So, what strategies can individuals—particularly those in the limelight—utilize to safeguard their sense of identity? Dr. Shankar underscores the significance of grounding oneself: “Maintaining a small, reliable support network, establishing boundaries regarding public perception, and consistently reconnecting with core values can help individuals remain anchored.”
She further notes that authenticity can be sustained when one does not allow external perceptions to define their identity but instead reinforces it through self-awareness and real-life connections.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we consulted.
