Ram Pothineni has spoken out against the growing menace of drug abuse, urging youngsters not to mistake substance use for a symbol of confidence or a modern lifestyle. Addressing students at a recent awareness programme, the actor backed the Telangana Government's Anti-Drug Eagle Force initiative and stressed that overcoming addiction begins with individual responsibility.

Ram shared a conversation he once had with a recovering drug addict abroad, recalling how the person admitted that living with addiction had become more frightening than death itself. The incident, he said, changed his perspective on the devastating impact drugs can have on a person's life.

Drawing a parallel with his role in Jagadam, Ram said the film reflected how difficult it is to escape the cycle of addiction once someone gets trapped. He cautioned students against experimenting with drugs, saying that a single wrong decision could have long-lasting consequences.

In a lighter yet meaningful moment, Ram gave a new interpretation to the popular phrase "YOLO." Instead of "You Only Live Once" being an excuse for reckless choices, he encouraged students to use it as a reason to reject drugs, reminding them that life should be valued and lived in a healthy way.

The actor also emphasized that while initiatives like the Anti-Drug Eagle Force can provide support, lasting change is only possible when individuals make a conscious decision to stay away from addiction and help those around them do the same.

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