Mumbai: There was a time when doing things alone was often looked at strangely. Whether it was travelling solo, watching a film alone, or dining out by yourself, people immediately assumed something was wrong. But actor-filmmaker Anupama Prakash feels the mindset around solo experiences is finally changing for the better.
Sharing her thoughts on the growing culture of doing things alone, she said, “I think it’s actually a very positive shift. Earlier, people always felt the need to be surrounded by others to enjoy life, but now many are understanding that being alone and being lonely are two completely different things. If someone enjoys their own company, that should be seen as confidence, not sadness.”
Anupama admitted that she too has consciously chosen to spend time alone just for the experience of it. She said, “Sometimes I like going for long drives alone or sitting somewhere quietly without constantly checking my phone. Those moments help me disconnect from the noise around me and reconnect with myself.”
According to her, society is becoming more accepting of solo experiences now, especially among younger people. She said, “I think people are slowly becoming less judgmental about it. Earlier, if someone was alone, people would immediately ask questions or assume they were unhappy. Now there’s more understanding that a person can genuinely enjoy being by themselves.”
For Anupama, spending time alone can be emotionally healing as well. She believes solitude helps people understand themselves better. She said, “When you spend time alone, you learn a lot about yourself, your thoughts, your fears, your likes and dislikes. It helps you grow emotionally because you stop depending on constant distractions.”
Explaining the difference between solitude and loneliness, she said, “Solitude is peaceful because it’s your choice. Loneliness feels heavy because it comes from feeling emotionally disconnected. A person can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely, while someone alone can feel completely content.”
Being part of an industry where actors are constantly surrounded by people, hectic schedules, and social interactions, Anupama said she values her alone time much more now. She said, “Definitely. Earlier I didn’t realise how important it was, but now I truly value those quiet moments. Even a little time alone after long shooting hours feels refreshing.”
Talking about one solo experience everyone should try at least once, she said, “I think everyone should travel alone at least once in their life. It teaches you independence, confidence, and helps you discover yourself in a completely different way.”
For her, being comfortable in your own company is deeply connected to self-confidence and self-awareness. “If you are comfortable being alone with your own thoughts, it means you know yourself well. I think that’s a very strong quality to have because it shows you are not constantly seeking validation from others,” Anupama ended.
