Every era has its own identity. This identity isn't simply defined by clothing, hairstyles, or facial hair, but by the mindset that guides both the individual and society. The biggest challenge facing young people today is that how they look has become less important, and what they think and who they emulate has become more important. External attraction, the glamour of social media, and instant popularity have made the definition of identity superficial.
Over the past few years, a heated debate has emerged regarding beards. Some consider them a symbol of modern fashion, while others see them as an example of cultural confusion and blind imitation. This debate becomes even more complex when it is linked to religion, politics, or conspiracy. Therefore, it is crucial that we rise above emotions, away from the noise, and approach this topic with a rational and factual perspective. Because when issues become a battle of identity rather than ideas, it creates division, not solutions.
History bears witness that both beards and clean shaves have been integral to Indian society. Vedic sages and saints sported matted hair, while royal courts also featured well-groomed, clean-shaven figures. Whether it's medieval or modern, both styles coexisted in every era. During the freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, and Pandit Nehru all had distinct looks, but shared a common purpose. Clearly, a beard is not something new or foreign, nor is a clean shave a foreign concept. Both have evolved according to time, circumstances, and personal preferences.
Today, the beard trend isn't limited to India. It's become a global fashion trend. Hollywood, European fashion, sports, the music industry, and digital influencers—beards are seen everywhere in varying styles. Social media has further accelerated these trends. With a single photo, video, or reel, trends spread across the world in an instant. Therefore, to assume that a single industry, group, or ideology is "spreading" a particular fashion would be an oversimplification of reality.
But it's equally true that blind imitation has become a serious problem. When young people blindly adopt a trend simply because it's popular or considered "cool," their personality becomes borrowed. Fashion becomes a problem when it overshadows thinking and reduces identity to mere external symbols. The question isn't whether to have a beard or not; the question is whether we understand the reasons behind our choices, or are we simply following the crowd?
In this context, it's important to discuss the role of cinema and digital media. The entertainment industry not only tells stories but also sets lifestyle standards. Repeatedly portraying the same "look," "style," and "heroism" as ideals limits the choices available to young people. This reduces diversity and increases uniformity. Responsible media is one that reflects the diversity of society—where simplicity is attractive, and diverse personalities are acceptable. But as viewers, it's also our responsibility to learn to distinguish between appearance and value.
Balance is essential even in discussions of God, culture, and beauty. Our traditions have been extremely diverse. Some have ascetics with matted hair, others decorated idols; some have renunciation, others adornment. Beauty isn't just about outward appearance, but also about conduct, compassion, restraint, and prudence. If we limit beauty to just the face, beard, or fashion, we diminish our own cultural depth.
The real threat facing today's youth isn't a single fashion, but a lack of self-awareness. When young people understand their history, values, and cultural diversity, adopting—or not adopting—a trend is their conscious and independent decision. But when identity rests solely on external symbols, confusion arises and individuals become easily influenced.
The solution doesn't lie in the language of fear, blame, or conspiracy. The solution lies in education, dialogue, and self-confidence. It's important to teach young people that fashion is fleeting, but character is enduring. Trends today may change tomorrow, but the values you embrace will last a lifetime. Therefore, choices must be made thoughtfully—not under pressure, fear, or blind imitation.
Society must also be wary of the language of division. When we view trends through the lens of fear or conspiracy, dialogue is stifled and polarization grows. Conversely, when we ask questions—“Why?”, “How?”, and “To what extent?”—understanding develops. A healthy society is one that allows for disagreement, but with respect and facts.
Today, we need to teach young people critical thinking—so that they don't blindly follow every trend. They should have a sense of ownership over their bodies, time, and identity. It's not wrong to follow fashion; what's wrong is to lose oneself in it. The true beauty of a person lies not in external adornment, but in self-confidence and discernment.
Ultimately, this debate isn't about beards, it's about direction. What are we building our identities on—appearance or ideas? If we give young people education, opportunity, and self-respect, they will be secure in any fashion—because their roots will be strong. The future of society is determined not by outward appearances, but by the strength of thought. And that same thought teaches us that trends come and go, but values are what endure the test of time.

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