The "unrealistic beauty standards" and "lifestyle choices" of young professionals were among the key topics discussed at a seminar hosted by The Bengal Chamber at Kolkata, in the presence of distinguished directors, actors and doctors.
 

One of the panelists at the show - 'Wake up Call' - said the increasing pressure to look youthful, fit and beautiful often forces professionals to go under the knife. Life under the studio lights or the one that is under public glare is not just about fun and action, he observed. "It might be a great morale booster at the psychological level, but people are going against nature to look good. The reconstructive surgeries, botox injections and crash diets could have serious health implications," he said at the seminar on July 29.

Oncologist Arundhati Chakraborty, on her part, stated that people in the film industry or those associated with performing arts are prone to insecurities and depression. "Often these creative people suffer from alcoholism, anorexia and mental depression. It's very important to counsel them to help them cope with the stress," Chakraborty said.

Talking about the importance of following a healthy diet, eminent cardiologist Rabin Chakraborty said people running in the rat race mostly fall prey to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. "We live in a society which is active 24x7... a society where most of us turn into sophisticated robots and not human beings... There is a need to have a healthy diet, which is well-balanced and keep our hearts strong," Chakraborty said.

Former Assistant Commissioner (Special Force), Kolkata Police, Guru Prasad Banerjee vouched for the traditional way of life. "Maintaining discipline in life, with a balanced mix of physical exercise, mini meals and positive attitude, is the key to confidence and happiness. Our forefathers did not face the problems we do as they led a simpler life," he claimed.

Another popular actor said one needs to understand his or her body type, the climatic conditions and family history before making lifestyle choices. "We are overcomplicating our lives without understanding the basic needs of our bodies. One should think about the price he or she will have to pay for transient beauty," she added.