Sara Ali Khan on handling trolling, emotions and staying real

Post by : Mina Rahman

For Sara Ali Khan, life in the spotlight comes with its fair share of scrutiny – and she’s learned to take it in her stride. The actor admits that facing constant trolling and criticism isn’t easy, especially when it turns personal or seems aimed at tearing her down. But over time, Sara says she’s developed mental filters that help her block out the noise and focus on what truly matters.

The 30-year-old actor, who was most recently seen in Sky Force and Metro… In Dino, believes that staying mentally strong and emotionally balanced is essential for survival in the film industry.

On dealing with trolling

Sara, the daughter of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, made her Bollywood debut in 2018 with Kedarnath, opposite the late Sushant Singh Rajput. She later appeared in successful films such as Rohit Shetty’s Simmba alongside Ranveer Singh, Coolie No. 1, Atrangi Re, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.

In an industry driven by public opinion, facing constant criticism and trolling is far from easy. Sara admits that it took her time to understand how to separate helpful feedback from negativity.

“It’s definitely not easy when you’re a public figure—opinions come at you from all directions, invited or not. But over time, I’ve learned to build a bit of a mental filter,” says Sara, when asked how she handles criticism online.

She continues, “I remind myself that constructive criticism is about the work, and it helps me grow, learn, and improve. I really value that.”

However, she draws a clear line when the commentary gets personal. “When it gets personal, or when the intention feels like it’s to bring you down rather than lift you up, I try not to let it in. I’ve realised that not everyone knows you, and not everyone needs to. What matters most is staying connected to who I am, my values, my intentions, and the people who know me off-screen,” adds Sara, who endorses ITC Fiama.

Finding calm amid chaos

Sara admits that even with experience, there are days when the online chatter affects her. But she doesn’t shy away from acknowledging those emotions. Instead, she turns to her family and close circle for support.

“Honestly, as a human, some days things affect me more than I’d like. And that’s okay. But I always come back to my work, my family, my routine, my friends and things that keep me real and rooted,” she says.

According to Sara, staying grounded in her personal life is what keeps her focused professionally. “At the end of the day, if you’re proud of the work you’re doing and growing along the way, that’s what truly matters.”

On embracing all emotions

Known for her vibrant personality and candid humour, Sara insists that she doesn’t feel pressured to always appear upbeat. She believes that allowing herself to feel a range of emotions makes her more authentic—both on-screen and off.

“I am, at most times, high energy, but trust me, I have my off days too! We are all human, and I’ve learned it’s totally okay to feel anxious and sad,” she shares.

Her way of dealing with such emotions is refreshingly relatable. “Well, I let myself have a mini drama moment—vent to my diary or friends, binge a comfort show, and then get back to sparkling,” she laughs.

For Sara, the key is not to suppress emotions but to channel them. “Life’s more fun when you don’t bottle up your emotions. Honestly, it makes the happy moments feel even sweeter.”

A balanced outlook

Between managing the pressures of fame and navigating personal growth, Sara Ali Khan continues to emerge as one of Bollywood’s most grounded voices among the younger generation of actors.

Whether it’s her mindful approach to criticism or her openness about vulnerability, Sara’s philosophy reflects a maturity that resonates with many of her fans. As she continues to evolve as an actor and individual, her message remains clear — staying real is her superpower.

Sara will next be seen in upcoming projects that continue to explore different genres, promising audiences a mix of performance and personality that defines her career.