MUMBAI - As multiple Bollywood films are celebrating how weaknesses can be turned into strengths, leading actress Deepika Padukone says it is important for celebrities to use their place of influence and power to bring about change in society.

“I think it is extremely important for those who are in positions of influence or power to bring about social change. It is extremely important for them to speak up about whatever issue it might be,” Deepika told IANS in an interview.

Of late, Indian film actors and filmmakers are attempting storylines which have a strong underlying message that can bring change in society. The latest example is Rani Mukerji’s "Hichki," a movie about how a woman with Tourette Syndrome, a neuropsychiatric disorder, makes it her strength and becomes a teacher.

“For many years, people always said, ‘You know you are successful, you should do work in social sectors as well or associate with an NGO’. There were so many options (for me), but I didn’t feel like I was being honest with them.”

“It didn’t come naturally to me until I came across mental health, because of my personal experience,” said the actress, who had earlier opened up about her battle with depression. She feels speaking up for a cause has to be an “organic” process.

“I don’t think there is any fixed time as to when one should do it. I think you should do it when you feel it is right.” - Agencies