Three consecutive deaths in Kolkata’s showbiz industry have got many people worried in the city.
Various stakeholders of the showbiz industry and psychologists have expressed concern over the rise in such incidents and the pressures of the profession.
Manjusha Niyogi, 26, who was found hanging on Friday, was reportedly suffering from depression.
Consultant psychologist Dr Rima Mukherjee told PTI that work pressure, ambition and sometimes lack of support could lead to depression for many.
"There are some who are resilient. There are also others who give in to pressure. Many get involved in relationships but find it difficult to hold on to them. Some go against parents to enter the profession. All these factors taken together could leave them depressed," she said.
"Manjusha had spoken to her husband and family members about her depression. She was saved by a friend during a suicide bid on an earlier occasion,” a police officer said.
Niyogi’s friend and colleague Bidisha De Majumder, a popular face in bridal make-up photoshoots, died under similar circumstances inside her rented apartment in the Dumdum area on Wednesday evening.
"My daughter was severely depressed after Bidisha's death and was constantly talking about her since then," Niyogi's mother said.
Actress Indrani Halder said that the initial days in the industry could be tough for many.
"There are times when opportunities dry up. It is difficult getting through such phases. I, too, experienced such situations in the past. Suicide, however, never crossed my mind, the national award-winning actress said.
According to fashion designer Agnimitra Paul, youths sometimes find it difficult to handle the sudden exposure to the glamour world and the fast-paced life.
She said the Covid-19 pandemic was a big blow for the industry, which caused insecurity and frustration among a section of young models.
"Diagnosing the symptoms of depression and counselling at the outset is important. Many of us don't recognise mental illness as an illness. This attitude has to change, Paul told PTI.
Television actor Pallabi Dey was also found hanging inside an apartment she had taken on rent in the Garfa area on May 15.
