Navya Naveli Nanda, granddaughter of Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, recently shared her insights on dealing with social media trolls in light of her admission to IIM Ahmedabad. Speaking at the India Today Mumbai Conclave 2024 on September 26, she expressed both appreciation for social media and an understanding of its challenges.
During her session titled Beyond the Legacy: Gen Z for a Just and Equal India, Navya highlighted the power of social media as a platform for expression. “Social media has been a great platform because it’s given a lot of people a voice,” she explained. Her remarks emphasized that, despite its pitfalls, social media can facilitate important conversations and allow individuals to share their stories.
Navya is particularly keen on harnessing social media for positive change. She described it as a valuable tool that, when used wisely, can bring about significant impact. “It’s been a great tool that, if used in the right way, has a lot of potential to bring about change,” she noted, aligning her thoughts with her initiatives, such as Project Naveli, which focuses on women’s empowerment.
Reflecting on her experience at IIM Ahmedabad, Navya expressed gratitude for being part of a premier institution. “India has some of the finest institutions in the world, and being a part of IIM Ahmedabad is incredible,” she stated, acknowledging the opportunity to learn from esteemed professors.
When it comes to the criticism she faces online, Navya emphasized the importance of embracing feedback. She stated, “If I consider myself to be working for people, I don’t think I can be offended by what they say.” This attitude has been instrumental in her growth as a person and entrepreneur, as she views constructive criticism as a chance to improve.
Navya is aware of her privileged background and the scrutiny it brings. “I accept that I come from a very different lived reality. People will have something to say about that,” she said. Nonetheless, she remains committed to her aspirations, focusing on her own journey rather than external judgments. “I don’t give a lot of thought to what people say negatively; I use it to do the best I can do in my journey,” she concluded.
While many of her peers might opt for social outings on weekends, Navya dedicates her Saturday nights to studying and attending classes, underscoring her commitment to education and self-improvement.
Through her thoughtful approach to social media and criticism, Navya Naveli Nanda exemplifies resilience and a strong sense of purpose, navigating the complexities of her public life with grace.