Actor Shanaya Kapoor has spoken candidly about facing social media trolling since her Bollywood debut, revealing that while criticism can sometimes be painful, she has learned to filter what truly matters. In a recent interview, Shanaya shared that whenever online comments affect her emotionally, she turns to her mother, Maheep Kapoor, whom she describes as her strongest support system and closest confidante.
Since stepping into the industry, Shanaya has been subjected to constant scrutiny on social media, with comments ranging from her work to her physical appearance, including remarks about her slim frame and jawline. Acknowledging that such remarks can sting, the actor said she actively tries to ignore personal attacks and remain focused on her craft.
Speaking to Zoom, Shanaya explained that she regularly reads comments on social media and differentiates between feedback and trolling. According to her, criticism related to her performance, dancing, or acting—no matter how harshly worded—is something she considers constructive. She believes listening to audience feedback is essential, even if it occasionally feels uncomfortable. “It may pinch a little, but it also serves as a reality check,” she said, adding that she sees such comments as part of her responsibility towards viewers.
However, Shanaya made it clear that remarks targeting her looks or body are not something she takes to heart. Comments about her appearance, she said, are best ignored, though she admitted that repeated exposure can sometimes be emotionally draining. She emphasised the importance of acknowledging that such negativity can hurt, rather than pretending it doesn’t exist.
Whenever the criticism becomes overwhelming, Shanaya said she leans on her mother, Maheep Kapoor, whom she trusts implicitly. She described her mother as not just a parent, but also her best friend, someone she can confide in without hesitation.
On the work front, Shanaya was last seen in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, directed by Santosh Singh and written by Mansi Bagla. The romantic drama, adapted from Ruskin Bond’s short story The Eyes Have It and co-starring Vikrant Massey, received mixed responses and did not perform well at the box office.
She will next appear in Bejoy Nambiar’s Tu Yaa Main, produced by Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma under Colour Yellow, along with Vinod Bhanushali and Kamlesh Bhanushali of Bhanushali Studios Limited. The film, described as a youthful take on love and survival, is scheduled for a theatrical release on February 13 and will face box-office competition from O Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, and Nana Patekar.