Rhea Chakraborty has spoken about how her understanding of strength has changed, saying it now includes accepting vulnerability, seeking support and trusting herself through uncertainty.
Reflecting on Durga Puja in an interview with hunterfly, as reported by shezindagi, the actor explained that she no longer associates Shakti only with fearlessness or the ability to manage every challenge independently.
A different understanding of strength
“For me, Shakti is about having faith in yourself, even when the world doesn’t necessarily have faith in you,” Rhea said.
She described a shift from believing she needed to handle everything to recognising that asking for help can also require courage.
Her reflections placed vulnerability within the meaning of strength. Being strong, in her account, leaves room for acknowledging difficult feelings and accepting support rather than expecting to have every answer.
Beginning again without dismissing the past
Rhea also discussed what it means to make a fresh start. For her, moving forward involves accepting previous experiences rather than acting as though they never happened.
She said life had not always followed the plans she made, but unexpected changes had helped her discover aspects of herself she might otherwise never have known.
The actor described feeling more open to shaping a life around her own choices. Her comments connected renewal with self-acceptance: recognising what has happened while allowing space for a different future.
Durga Puja memories with loved ones
Alongside her personal reflections, Rhea recalled the familiar pleasures of celebrating Durga Puja with friends and family.
Pandal visits and shared festive meals were among the memories she mentioned. Those experiences formed the personal backdrop to her discussion of Shakti, bringing together the festival’s meaning and the comfort of spending time with loved ones.
Women’s safety requires shared responsibility
Rhea extended the conversation to women’s safety and equality, arguing that responsibility must reach beyond women themselves.
She called for stronger systems, greater accountability and environments where women can speak openly without having their experiences questioned.
She also emphasised the role of upbringing, saying change begins with what children learn and how society responds when women express their views.
Her remarks brought together two concerns: the freedom to make personal choices and the support needed to exercise that freedom safely.

