Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain! fame Shubhangi Atre on solo living and inner strength: Loneliness comes from the mind

At a time when solo experiences are becoming increasingly popular, actress Shubhangi Atre, who has been a part of shows like Do Hanson Ka Jodaa, Havan, Chidiya Ghar, and Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain!, offers a grounded and thought-provoking perspective. While many are embracing independence, she says she views this shift a little differently.“

These are the people who have become fed up with life, the ones who aren’t finding any anchor,” she says. “Having someone in life—a friend, a partner—is very necessary. I am not the kind of person who likes to live all alone. I prefer my family, my friends, my people around me.”

However, she adds that solitude is not always negative, but it depends on the mindset. “Loneliness comes from the mind. A person feels alone when they are troubled within,” she explains.

Recalling a recent personal experience, she shares how she once stood alone for what she believed was right. She says, “In my housing society, a decision taken through proper voting was changed under pressure. No one spoke up. I stood alone and raised my voice.”

She adds that what started as a lone effort slowly turned into a collective movement. “Today, 55 people have joined me. That is a big thing for me. If something is wrong, you should not stay quiet,” she says firmly.

On the fear of judgment, she is clear and direct. “People will judge you if you walk alone. But don’t become a football of other people’s opinions,” she adds. “You are running your own life, not them.”

Talking about emotional growth, she draws a clear distinction between isolation and meaningful solitude. “If you want to be alone for peace, for meditation, that is different. But running away from people out of frustration is not the same,” she says.

She concludes with a powerful thought: “If you want to be alone, be alone with yourself. That is where real peace lies.”