Pawan Kalyan recalls slipping into depression at 17; calls his struggles “overwhelming”

Over the years, many Indian celebrities have spread awareness about mental health and battling depression. The changing dynamics of the entertainment industry often create stress for celebs. If not diagnosed and treated on time, the depression can be worse and lead to suicidal thoughts. South star Pawan Kalyan not only experienced it but also battled with it to come out of it. Recalling the same, in the episode of Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Unstoppable Season 2, Pawan recalled his struggles with depression.

For the unversed, the interview is being telecast in two parts, with this being the concluding episode. In the first part of the conversation, Pawan spoke at length about his personal life and his battle with depression. According to a report by India Today, he said, “My struggles with depression were overwhelming, but I fought through it.”

He further added, “I have asthma and felt isolated due to frequent hospitalisation. Therefore, I’m not much of a social person. At the age of 17, the pressure of exams only added to my depression. I remember planning to take my own life by using the licensed revolver of my eldest brother (Chiranjeevi Konidela) when he was not at home.” he also mentioned how book reading, martial arts, practising Carnatic music, and other pursuits helped him in “becoming a better person”.

Speaking of the second part of his interview, the actor-turned-politician will speak about the reasons for his political plunge, ideology, and the political affairs in Andhra Pradesh. It will premiere on February 10.

Coming to the professional front, the 51-year-old actor has multiple projects in his kitty, including Hari Hara Veeramallu, They Call Him OG, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh, and an untitled project with Samuthirakani.