Esha Deol, daughter of Bollywood legends Dharmendra and Hema Malini, has opened up about the constant comparisons she faced with her mother throughout her film career. Since her debut in Koi Mere Dil Se Poochhe, Esha has dealt with relentless scrutiny about how she measures up to her iconic mother, one of the most celebrated actors in Hindi cinema.
Speaking about the advice she received from her parents, Esha shared that guidance was only offered when necessary. After her first film, she recalls a conversation with her mother, who advised her to accept the comparisons as part of the journey and not let them affect her passion for acting.
Psychologist Neha Cadabam highlights the negative effects of perpetual comparisons on mental health, explaining that such pressure can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and performance pressure. Constantly being compared to someone else’s achievements can create feelings of inadequacy, resentment, and even identity loss.
To cope with this pressure, Cadabam suggests practicing self-compassion, focusing on personal growth, limiting exposure to social media, and engaging in mindfulness. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help if the comparisons begin to severely impact mental health.
Ultimately, Esha Deol’s story sheds light on the emotional challenges that come with being compared to a successful predecessor, and how resilience, support, and self-acceptance can help navigate these difficulties.
