How social media obsession distracts from genuine character, real achievements, and meaningful life choices in Kashmir and beyond
By Humaira Jan
Vlogging, a growing activity in Kashmir at a rapid pace, has become an obsession for some people. How vlogging is done—almost everyone knows it is a common activity. However, it is untrue how vlogging is actually practised; many people are unaware of its true nature. This is causing it to spread quickly and affecting immature minds very rapidly. Most people consider it idle and still take it as their amusement. By watching such idle and superficial vlogs of various kinds, their brains are affected whimsically before they even recognise it. Many start believing that vlogging is a facile way of earning money, albeit with shame. This easy path sometimes fascinates them; the illusory allure draws them in, and they become involved. They become irrelevant to their families and their own lives. Moments that could be lived peacefully and privately are instead captured in shoots with great care. Thus, true happiness ends there.
Vlogging was truly meaningful when celebrities did it, because people were interested in knowing what their lives were like. They would watch their videos. The popularity of celebrity vlogging increased during the lockdown when people were at home doing nothing and also stepping into social media. Their videos often included exercise, skincare routines, and sometimes home tours.
On the contrary, things shifted when ordinary people started gaining popularity through TikTok and other platforms. Every popular figure became a star on social media, and they, too, started vlogging. However, their lives were not as glamorous as Bollywood or Hollywood stars. Influenced by these figures, common people began to imitate them. Suddenly, people became more competitive, idle, and eager to behave like superstars. In their pursuit of fame, they furthered their lives, cultures, and religions, often neglecting their real priorities and future stability. Becoming a doctor does not guarantee success, but presenting oneself as a social media star does not bring genuine achievement either. Such influencers often influence others negatively, and eventually, many face shutdowns of their accounts. They themselves sometimes call themselves “ruiners.” So, how can anyone support such behaviour? Do they also want to be ruined like them?
Money is not the most important thing—it is a satisfied and accomplished life. And most importantly, it is one’s status, personality and character. Usually, these qualities are lacking among vloggers.
This is not because they are not celebrities or scientists; rather, they wander outside for trivial things without doing any meaningful work. Some just study to pass college unscrupulously, without gaining real education or life experience. It is even more disturbing when young children start vlogging. Since they are not yet popular, they become pompous and anxious. Instead of focusing on studies, they try to become influencers.
Some women in our homeland earn money during their free time; while sitting idle, they find it a good way to earn money. However, they also desire fame and a digital life. Ironically, many girls cover their faces with masks, scarves, or dupattas while on camera, but are unconcerned about modesty or religious guidelines. From a religious perspective, the face and body are more important to cover. In vlogs, girls attend weddings wearing alluring clothes or show themselves to others without permission—yet, they cover their faces like thieves or drug peddlers when wandering outside.
The crux is that anyone on social media, whether a vlogger or a simple account holder, should remain respectful and behave responsibly. Presenting yourself on social media now means little if everyone can do it. Your face may have value, but don’t become a burden or a source of disgrace. Acting like a hero belongs only in movies, not in real life. Avoid uploading videos of your insane moments or showing off sadness, despair, or difficulties—you’re just an ordinary person. Though I may seem conservative, it’s better to remain discreet to avoid disgrace and humiliation, which spreads faster than liberalism.
Such behaviour can lead viewers to become obsessed with others’ blessings and lives, neglecting their own. Their personality and character both become eroded when they indulge in imitation. If that life was never meant for you, then live the life Allah has granted you—your own unique and authentic life, which merely needs some positive modifications and good habits. True respect comes from humility and character. Vlogging itself is a fallacy—a deceptive illusion—even if its content is diverse. Don’t let your weak mind fall prey to virtual success. Real success lies in your own character, not in imitation.
Watching Korean lifestyles or Dubai tours may be futile if they are unreachable to you. Simply craving kimchi after watching Koreans eat it—even though it’s not available here for years—serves no purpose. It’s good that they earn money through their luxury; why not become better by watching the daily routines of students or interviews of successful personalities who share their habits?
Vlogging wastes your time and mental faculties on useless things. Instead, focus on your own routine and improve it meaningfully and healthily. Take a walk alone or with friends, keeping your phone charged for emergencies. Instead of watching others buy clothes or enjoy delicacies, work on reshaping your wardrobe or try cooking delicious meals at home. While fame might seem appealing from the outside, those influencers often ignore real problems or neglect their genuine responsibilities. Their joy in fame is temporary and does not solve your deeper issues.
Moreover, vloggers diminish your knowledge and experience. Watching vlogs means you might be doing nothing or procrastinating. You might process information, but it’s often useless and fills your mind with superficial content.
In conclusion, social media activities that seem simple are often manipulative—playing with emotions, careers, or wasting time. Not only vlogging, but also other online pursuits can hinder your progress. Once you stop, you’ll realise how simple and achievable a meaningful life can be if you aim in the right direction.
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