An old student’s reflections on changing influences and the future of Belagavi’s youth.
Having studied in Belagavi nearly 20 years ago, I still look back fondly on my student days, the friendships I made and the memories I carry. For many of us, Belagavi was more than a place to study. It was where we grew up, learnt about life and began shaping our futures.
Looking back, I often wonder how the influences on young minds have changed. In our student days, cinema played a significant role in shaping how youngsters viewed relationships, heartbreak and even drinking. Films like Devdas are classic examples of how alcohol was sometimes portrayed as part of tragic romance and personal suffering. On screen, it could look dramatic, even romantic, while the real-life consequences were far less glamorous.
Today, cinema continues to influence young people, but social media has added another dimension. Images of parties, drinking and risk-taking appear repeatedly on our phones, sometimes making them look fashionable or normal. What was once watched on the big screen is now reinforced by online trends and peer pressure. Of course, every young person responds differently, but the combined influence is worth thinking about.
My years in Belagavi remain special to me, and I would never want to judge a generation or a city by individual experiences. But recent reports about substance-related concerns in Belagavi have made me reflect on whether we are doing enough to help young people distinguish between what looks attractive and what is actually good for them.
In August 2025, The Times of India reported that Belagavi police had seized more than 103 kg of ganja in two months. Reports in 2026 also highlighted efforts to address drug use among students, concerns about teenagers being drawn into drug peddling, and protests over alleged illegal liquor sales in rural areas.
These reports do not establish how widespread substance use is among Belagavi’s youth. They do, however, remind us that awareness, prevention and timely support deserve attention.
It is not about being cool. It is about making choices.
The teenage years and early twenties bring curiosity, the need to belong and the pressure to fit in. Academic stress, career uncertainty and personal struggles can add to these pressures. For some, trying alcohol or ganja may begin as an experiment or an attempt to fit into a group.
Not everyone who experiments develops a dependency, and every young person has a different story. But regular substance use can affect studies, relationships, finances and future opportunities. In some cases, young people may also become involved in illegal activities.
One risky choice does not automatically lead to another, but it can sometimes make further risks easier to take. Helping youngsters recognise these risks early is far better than waiting until a problem becomes difficult to manage.
The conversation must begin at home
Parents cannot control every influence in their children’s lives, nor should they try to. But they can create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing difficult subjects without immediately facing anger or humiliation.
As children enter their teens, conversations about alcohol, drugs and peer pressure become increasingly important. Asking questions, listening patiently and discussing real-life consequences can make a difference. A child who feels heard at home may be more willing to seek help when something goes wrong.
Schools and colleges also have a role to play. Awareness programmes, counselling, sports, cultural activities and other positive outlets can help youngsters manage stress and build confidence. Saying no to friends is not always easy, especially when acceptance matters so much. Young people need to know that walking away from pressure is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The concern extends beyond the city
Belagavi’s villages deserve attention too. In January 2026, The Times of India reported protests over alleged illegal liquor sales in rural areas. In July, it reported that women from Khodanpur village had sought the closure of liquor outlets.
These reports reflect concerns raised by residents, not proof that every village faces the same problem. Still, they highlight the impact alcohol-related issues can have on families and community life.
Awareness must reach beyond urban schools and college campuses. Village-level discussions, youth groups, parent meetings and accessible counselling can help families address concerns early. Complaints about illegal sales must also be taken seriously, with the law enforced fairly and consistently.
Belagavi’s young people deserve every opportunity
Belagavi has a strong educational base, professional institutions and opportunities that attract young people from across North Karnataka and neighbouring regions. Students come here with ambitions, and families place their hopes in them. We should do everything possible to help them make the most of these opportunities.
Karnataka’s legal drinking age is 21, and the law must be enforced consistently. Restrictions on notified dry days must also be respected; illegal sales and attempts to bypass these restrictions should not be overlooked.
But enforcement alone is not enough. Young people struggling with substance use may need counselling, professional treatment and rehabilitation, not just punishment or stigma. Parents, educational institutions, health professionals, community groups, police and the administration must work together.
Above all, we should not write off a youngster who is struggling. The right conversation, timely support or a chance to change direction can make a real difference.
I write this as someone who spent some formative years in Belagavi and continues to feel connected to the city. This is not a criticism of Belagavi or today’s generation. Every generation faces its own pressures. What matters is whether we recognise them and respond in time.
Cinema may once have made drinking look romantic. Today, cinema and social media can reinforce that image in new ways. But real life is not a film, and the consequences do not end when the screen goes dark.
Belagavi has given generations of students education, friendships and memories to cherish. Let us ensure that today’s youngsters also have the guidance, support and opportunities they need to build meaningful lives.
Our youngsters are not a problem to be written off. They are a future worth protecting.
About the Author
I am a Project Lead at a global multinational company, currently based in Hyderabad. Having studied in Belagavi in the early 2000s before moving to Pune and later Hyderabad, I continue to cherish the memories, friendships and experiences of my student years in the city.