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Still alive - But at what cost?

 Still Alive — But at What Cost?


I recently watched Still Alive by Samay Raina. My first encounter with his work had been through India’s Got Latent, and I remember feeling distinctly out of place. Perhaps it was the generation gap, but the excessive use of foul language and the overall tone did not sit well with me. It felt uncomfortable, almost jarring. Yet, I couldn’t ignore the fact that the younger audience seemed to thoroughly enjoy it—drawn to its raw, unfiltered humour.


On repeated recommendations, and in the backdrop of the controversy surrounding his show, I decided to give Still Alive a fair chance. What I discovered surprised me.


Beyond the language—which I still find difficult to fully accept—there were thoughts that lingered long after the performance ended.


One of the most striking ideas was the undeniable importance of connections in a country like India. While talent and hard work matter, networks often open doors that effort alone cannot. It’s a reality we may not always like, but one we cannot ignore.


Equally powerful was the emphasis on self-belief. Life is rarely smooth, and adversity is inevitable. What defines us is not the absence of struggle, but the resilience to keep going despite it. Every individual faces challenges; strength lies in the way we confront them.


Another aspect that resonated deeply was the role of parents. Parenting is not just about providing—it is about shaping values, building emotional strength, and guiding a child through life’s uncertainties. The foundation laid at home often determines how one navigates the world.


There was also a quiet, yet profound reminder about dealing with difficult times. Not every situation calls for advice or a motivational speech. Sometimes, what a person truly needs is presence—someone to simply sit beside them, to listen, or even just offer a comforting hug. Words, in such moments, can feel insufficient.


At the same time, the importance of having a personal value system stood out. In a world that constantly pushes boundaries, it becomes even more essential to know where one stands—and to remain grounded in those beliefs.


That said, I did not entirely agree with the way the performance concluded. Nor do I feel that India’s Got Latent should necessarily return. However, this experience did make me pause and reflect. Perhaps the younger generation is not merely seeking shock value—they are also searching for honesty, even if it comes wrapped in discomfort.


Still Alive, then, is not just a title. It is a reminder—that beneath the noise, the irreverence, and the rawness, there are thoughts worth listening to… if we are willing to look beyond the surface.

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