The dazzling world of celebrity is often defined by flashing cameras, adoring crowds, and endless requests for selfies. For veteran actors Archana Puran Singh and Parmeet Sethi, this is a daily reality. However, a recent incident in the US has cast a harsh light on the painful collateral damage of fame—a cost paid not by them, but by their son, Ayushmaan Sethi.
A Chaotic Encounter in New York
In a candid and emotional revelation on her podcast, Archana Puran Singh recounted a distressing encounter with fans in New York. While she and Parmeet were swarmed by a frenzied crowd eager for pictures, their son Ayushmaan was caught in the middle. He wasn’t just overlooked; he was physically shoved aside in the chaos.
Detailing the experience, Archana shared that her son was literally “pushed and slapped” by people rushing past him to get to his famous parents.
‘Tujhe Koi Nahi Pooch Raha’: The Words That Stung
While the physical jostling was jarring, it was the callous words hurled at him that inflicted the deepest wound. As fans elbowed their way forward to get a photo with Archana and Parmeet, someone turned to Ayushmaan and said, “Tujhe koi nahi pooch raha hai, tu side hatt” (Nobody is asking for you, move aside).
For any young man standing with his parents, being told he is an invisible obstacle is a brutal emotional blow. The incident serves as a stark reminder that in the public’s pursuit of a celebrity moment, family members can be reduced to mere background props.
A Mother’s Guilt: Archana’s Painful Confession
Speaking about the incident, Archana confessed to feeling a deep pang of “mom-guilt.” While one part of her felt the validation of fan love, the maternal part ached for her son’s humiliation. “My son was literally pushed, slapped, and told to move aside… That’s not a good feeling for a young boy,” she expressed, her voice heavy with the memory.
This moment highlights the complex emotions celebrities navigate, balancing public appreciation with protecting their family’s dignity.
The Unseen Cost of Fame for Star Kids
This incident sparks a much-needed conversation about fan culture and the complex reality of being a ‘star kid’. While many assume celebrity children live a life of unchecked privilege, the truth is far more nuanced. For those like Ayushmaan and his brother Aryamann, who have chosen paths away from the limelight in the US, being thrust into the chaos of their parents’ fame can be deeply unpleasant.
Unlike star kids actively seeking media attention for their debuts, Ayushmaan was simply a son spending time with his parents. The crowd’s behaviour shows a startling lack of empathy, where the focus on capturing a celebrity photo completely eclipses the humanity of those standing nearby.
Since Archana’s confession, many have taken to social media to express sympathy for Ayushmaan and criticise the mob mentality of the fans involved. It’s a potent lesson: our beloved stars are also parents and spouses, and their families deserve the same courtesy and respect as anyone else. The next time you see a celebrity, remember the people standing beside them.
