Dancer and choreographer Shakti Mohan recently shared that she struggled to accept her own name while growing up because of constant teasing during her school years.

The 40-year-old performer recalled that people often mocked her by comparing her name to male public figures and fictional characters, which made her feel uncomfortable as a child.

Speaking during an interaction with SheThePeople, Shakti revealed that she once questioned why her parents had chosen the name for her.

‘People Used To Call Me Shaktimaan’

Talking about her childhood experiences, Shakti said:

“People used to bully me by calling me ‘Shaktimaan’ and ‘Shakti Kapoor.’ I used to wonder why my parents named me Shakti in the first place.”

She explained that she initially associated the name with male identities because of how people around her reacted to it.

However, her perception gradually changed during her school years when teachers explained the deeper meaning behind the name.

“Later, in 10th and 11th standards, my professors told me, ‘You have no idea how powerful this name is. Iska matlab divine energy hai.’ That was the first time I started seeing my name differently,” she shared.

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Shakti Talks About Identity And Comparisons

Shakti Mohan also reflected on growing up alongside her sisters Neeti Mohan and Mukti Mohan, both of whom also built successful careers in entertainment.

According to her, none of the sisters originally planned careers in the arts.

“We just followed what we loved. I loved dancing, Didi loved singing, and Mukti loved acting,” she said.

She also spoke about how comparisons between siblings were common during their boarding school years.

Shakti recalled teachers often comparing Mukti to her, adding that such pressure should not exist.

“Everyone deserves their own identity,” she said.

Being The Middle Child Felt Different

The choreographer further opened up about the emotional experience of being the middle child in the family.

“Na baby wala pyaar mila, na decision-maker wali respect,” she said humorously.

Despite those feelings, Shakti said dance remained the one thing she always felt certain about.

“Agar mann hai, toh mai karungi,” she added while explaining her approach towards life and career decisions.

Experts Explain Why Names Affect Self-Identity

Psychotherapist and life coach Delnna Rrajesh reflected on Shakti’s experience and explained how names can strongly influence a person’s self-image during childhood.

According to her, a name becomes one of the earliest parts of identity that children emotionally connect with.

She noted that teasing around names can deeply affect confidence and self-perception.

Delnna also pointed out that perspective plays an important role in shaping identity.

Instead of changing the name itself, Shakti’s teachers helped her reinterpret its meaning positively — a shift that transformed how she viewed herself.

The expert added that supportive mentors, teachers and emotionally healthy environments can significantly help children build confidence and self-worth.