Sharmila Tagore Advocates for Individuality and Embracing Aging as Opportunity

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore is challenging negative stereotypes associated with aging, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the individuality and potential of older adults. She argues that aging should not be equated with fragility or dependence but rather embraced as a time for new opportunities. Tagore highlighted these views at an event on International Day for Older Persons (October 1). Tagore stresses that each older person is unique, and generalizations are harmful. She questions the assumption that aging automatically leads to decreased capability and productivity, noting that many older adults remain independent and healthy well into their 60s and beyond. She encourages embracing change and evolving with age, viewing it as a time for new opportunities rather than lost youth. Tagore, who turned 80 in December 2024, has spoken about ageism and how older people are stereotyped. She believes that if one is healthy, they can lead a productive life and that aging is about seizing new opportunities. She also emphasizes the importance of not boxing people into categories based on age.