Shriya Pilgaonkar believes honesty is the best way to deal with criticism in the digital age. The actress recently spoke candidly about social media negativity, admitting that she is still figuring out how to navigate online reactions instead of pretending to have all the answers. Speaking at the TN Sustainability Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, Shriya reflected on authenticity, the responsibility that comes with public visibility and how cinema can inspire meaningful conversations beyond entertainment.
The actress, who is gearing up for the release of Mirzapur The Movie, also discussed sustainability and the influence storytelling can have on shaping public opinion. Rather than offering simple solutions, Shriya emphasized the importance of encouraging people to think, reflect and learn through powerful narratives.
Shriya Says Honesty Helps Her Face Online Criticism
During a conversation at the conclave, Shriya admitted she does not consider herself an expert when it comes to handling negativity on social media. Instead of projecting perfection, she prefers acknowledging that she is constantly learning. According to the actress, being honest about what she knows and what she doesn’t leaves little room for unnecessary criticism.
“If you pretend to be someone who you are not, or if you pretend to know more than you do, then people will call you out. If I am calling myself out and say that I am not an expert and I am still learning, no one can call me out.”
Her comments reflect a growing conversation among actors about balancing public expectations with authenticity. In an era where celebrities are expected to voice opinions on a wide range of issues, Shriya believes transparency is more valuable than trying to appear knowledgeable about everything.
She Believes Stories Can Inspire Real Change
Beyond discussing social media, Shriya highlighted the role cinema can play in raising awareness about environmental issues. She recalled being associated with the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival and explained why she believes storytelling is often more effective than direct messaging when encouraging audiences to think differently.
“I was part of the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival. I would like to say that instead of telling people to not cut trees and not kill wildlife. The power of a story to shake you and move you to reflect. I realise that is a space more people can use to create an impact.”
For Shriya, films have the ability to spark emotional responses that facts and instructions sometimes cannot. She feels stories stay with audiences long after the credits roll, making cinema a powerful medium for encouraging reflection on important social and environmental issues.
The Roles That Changed Her Perspective
The actress also spoke about the characters that have influenced her own outlook on society. Shriya said one of the greatest privileges of being an actor is the opportunity to experience different lives through every role, allowing her to better understand situations she may never encounter personally.
“Playing Radha Bhargava in Broken News was one such role. it gave me a sense of the turmoil of wanting to make a difference, but what does it really mean in society? How dirty do you have to get your hands to make a difference? Guilty Minds, where I played a lawyer. These two roles had a very strong impact on me. Besides that, it is a privilege to do this and connect with the audience. Sometimes we end up having a bit of power where we can make a difference by speaking about things we are passionate about, and people will listen to them.”
Shriya believes actors have an opportunity to contribute to conversations that matter, provided they use that platform responsibly. Rather than seeing fame as the end goal, she views it as a chance to encourage dialogue around issues that deserve more attention.
On the work front, Shriya Pilgaonkar will next be seen in Mirzapur The Movie, which is scheduled to release on September 4. The highly anticipated film features an ensemble cast including Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Jitendra Kumar, Divyenndu Sharma and Shweta Tripathi, bringing the popular crime drama franchise from streaming to the big screen.
