Sunny Deol on why smoking and drinking never became habits: ‘The age was such…’

Sunny Deol, the actor from Batwara 1947, shared his thoughts on why he never smoked or drank, even when his peers were indulging. During an interview with podcaster Shubhankar Mishra, Deol revealed that he had tried smoking and drinking in his youth, but found the experience unpleasant. The taste was bitter, and the practice required quick consumption before a headache set in.

Deol emphasized that he never felt pressured into these habits by his friends. He stated, "I want to be what I want to be, and still they should accept me. Agar rum ko paaloge toh gham kabhi nahi utrega" (If you embrace rum, you will never be truly happy). Counseling psychologist Srishti Vatsa explained that teenagers often turn to smoking and drinking due to peer pressure, with films and television promoting the idea that these habits are cool.

Environmental factors, stress, and lack of awareness about e-cigarettes also contribute to addiction. Vatsa highlighted the importance of parents creating a supportive environment and encouraging open communication with their children, as well as suggesting physical activities and hobbies as healthier alternatives to smoking and drinking.