Kushal Punjabi Suicide: Friend Arjun Bijlani Says, ‘Treat Depression As An Illness’
On Friday, we all woke up to the most shocking news for the TV and Bollywood industry that of actor Kushal Punjabi’s sudden death. When his friend Arjun Bijlani learnt that the reason behind him taking his own life was depression he went vocal about it. The actor said that depression should be treated as an illness in India
The TV fraternity woke up to the most shocking news of Television and Bollywood that of actor Kushal Punjabi’s sudden death. We reported that the actor hung himself at his residence in Bandra on Dec 27. Kushal, who was a household name, left for heavenly abode leaving everyone in shock and trauma. It’s still hard for a few people to believe that the 37-Year-old actor is no more. Right from Karanvir Bohra, to Arjun Bijlani to his good friend Chetan Hansraj were snapped at his funeral paying their last respects. The actor, who was last seen in Ishq Mein Marjaawan and was married to Audrey Dolhen and is survived by a son.
Arjun Bijlani, who was a dear friend and co-actor to Kushal Punjabi in the serial Ishq Mein Marjawan went vocal about spreading awareness and dealing with depression which. Arjun took to his Instagram account and quoted “I wish this news wasn’t true .but @itsme_kushalpunjabi has left us .will always remember our positive conversations about life, family and work. Rest in peace brother. #ripkushalpunjabi” (ALSO READ: Kushal Punjabi's Best Friend Chetan Hansraj Leaves Mumbai For A Few Days: 'Couldn't Take It Anymore. It's Been Very Rough'- EXCLUSIVE)
Speaking about his friend to Hindustan Times, he said, “The last time I spoke to Kushal, he seemed fine. I guess, in the last few months, he was going through a rough time but I never thought he would take this step. He was a strong-headed, jovial and humble person. I don’t know how he lost his purpose in life. The actor further said that after he learnt about Punjabi’s reason behind taking the drastic step was depression, he hopes, “Wake up to mental health issues in India and treat depression as an illness. There should be more awareness about depression and help centres to aid those going through it. The world is becoming a tougher place to live in and I think a lot of things affect people which might lead to depression.”
Since the actor has worked in the entertainment industry for over 12 years, Bijlani said, “For some people, it might be tough to handle life when fame and success fade away. Watching people who were praising you disappear, is a sad reality to handle. And not just disappear, but sometimes, the same people mock you for not having work, which is horrible. I have seen it happen at award functions and on reality shows. I feel broadcasters and writers should refrain from doing so as it really hurts people.” (ALSO READ: Kushal Punjabi Suicide: Chetan Hansraj BREAKS DOWN, "His Body Had Turned Cold, I Brought It Down, Kaafi Ghante Beet Chuke The"- EXCLUSIVE)
“One should find happiness in other things apart from your career. Banking on family or friends is an essential requirement. People need to be more compassionate and understanding and listen to others when they come with a problem. Being a good listener is the least you can do for someone who needs support,” he concluded saying.
Images Source: instagram/arjunbijlani
