Bollywood star and host Akshay Kumar recently spoke about the growing concern of mobile phone addiction among children, calling it a “trap” that can have serious consequences if not addressed early. Speaking during a recent episode of the quiz reality show ‘Wheel of Fortune’, the actor reflected on the impact of excessive screen time and urged parents to take responsibility in guiding their children’s digital habits.

According to an IANS report, Akshay took a moment during the show to move beyond the quiz format and engage contestants and the audience in a conversation about technology, parenting and behavioural changes in the digital age. He pointed out how watching a single reel or short video often leads to prolonged screen usage, sometimes consuming nearly six hours a day, and warned that such habits could be harmful for young minds.

During the episode, Akshay interacted with contestants Akash Singh, Priyanshi Singh and Prateek Chaturvedi, initiating a discussion on social media dependency. He asked the audience how many parents felt their children had become addicted to mobile phones, prompting a response from one parent who observed that many children now even eat meals while watching their phones.

Responding to the concern, the actor emphasised that parents must introspect and recognise their role in introducing devices to children at an early age. He stressed that early exposure to mobile phones can become a trap and highlighted the need for timely intervention. Sharing a personal anecdote, Akshay spoke about a friend whose excessive mobile use reportedly worsened his diabetes and mentioned the rising number of people seeking digital rehabilitation due to screen addiction.

He urged parents to identify early warning signs and take corrective steps, noting that children often follow habits shaped by their environment. According to him, it is the responsibility of parents to guide them and help them understand the consequences of excessive device usage.

During the discussion, Akshay also drew a parallel with practices from Native American communities to underline the importance of awareness and self-control. He explained how individuals often learn from experiences and suggested that understanding consequences can help shape behaviour, though he clarified that parents should decide what approach works best for their families.

Concluding his remarks, the actor said he was not prescribing solutions but encouraging reflection, adding that parents ultimately know what is best for their children. The episode highlighted the broader issue of growing digital dependence and sparked conversation around responsible technology use and parenting in an increasingly connected world.