Television actor Smriti Khaannaa has spoken out against the growing trend of age shaming in the entertainment industry, saying reality shows should promote talent and healthy competition rather than using a person’s age as a tool for ridicule.
Known for her performances in shows such as Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyann, Niyati, and Santoshi Maa, Smriti believes that comments targeting contestants based on their age have become increasingly common and risk normalising disrespectful behaviour among audiences.
Smriti Khaannaa: Growing Older Is Not a Weakness
Sharing her thoughts on the issue, Smriti said society has become overly focused on youth, often treating ageing as something negative instead of accepting it as a natural part of life.
According to the actress, age should never determine a person’s value or place in the entertainment industry.
She stressed that experience, maturity and talent deserve the same appreciation as youth, adding that growing older is a universal journey rather than something to be mocked.
Concern Over Reality Show Culture
Smriti expressed particular concern about how reality television sometimes portrays age-related remarks as entertainment.
She noted that contestants occasionally use terms like “uncle” or “aunty” in a mocking tone to dismiss or belittle fellow participants. While these words are respectful in many contexts, she believes they become problematic when used to humiliate someone or undermine their credibility.
The actress warned that repeated exposure to such behaviour on popular television shows can influence viewers, especially younger audiences, to view age-based insults as socially acceptable.
Entertainment Should Celebrate Talent
Instead of encouraging personal attacks, Smriti believes reality shows should focus on performance, creativity and healthy competition.
She said entertainment has the power to shape public attitudes and therefore carries a responsibility to promote respect rather than humiliation.
For Smriti, success should be measured by skill, dedication and character—not by how young someone appears.
A Broader Conversation on Ageism
Ageism has become an increasingly discussed topic across the entertainment industry, with actors from television and cinema frequently speaking about stereotypes linked to age.
Industry professionals have often pointed out that performers continue to deliver memorable work across different stages of life, proving that talent is not limited by age.
Smriti’s comments add to the wider conversation about creating more inclusive and respectful workplaces where individuals are recognised for their abilities rather than judged by their age.
Respect Beyond the Screen
The actress concluded that changing attitudes begins with recognising the value of experience and treating people with dignity regardless of their age.
Her message highlights a broader principle: respect should never depend on appearance or age, but on a person’s character, contribution and talent.
