The hidden cost of fame: Keveshan Govender on anxiety and finding purpose

Behind the glamour of red carpets and award shows lies an industry that many admire but few truly understand.

Producer and actor Keveshan Govender has decided to speak openly about that side - the side filled with pressure, self-doubt and the constant expectation to perform.

After months out of the public eye, he has returned, not to chase attention, but to tell the truth.

“I disappeared for a while because I needed to breathe,” Govender said.

“People see the success, the photos, the events. They do not see what it takes to keep showing up, even when you are tired. There is a pressure to always be ‘on,’ to always deliver. But what good is it if you lose yourself?”

Govender shared his reflections with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, describing his time away as a necessary retreat. He said it was not about quitting, but about survival.

“This is not a comeback to chase headlines,” he explained. “This is me owning my truth. If speaking about it helps even one person step back and take care of themselves, then I have done something meaningful.”

He spoke about the cost of chasing recognition without purpose.

“Fame without purpose is empty,” he said. “People think visibility is everything. But visibility without peace can destroy you. I had to ask myself, Why am I doing this? And who am I outside the industry?”

Wellness advocate Barbara Miller supported his decision to step away, noting the importance of rest.

“Taking a retreat, whether from work, social expectations or the public eye, gives the mind and body a chance to reset,” Miller said.

“It is not running away. It is an intentional pause. It improves clarity, lowers stress and strengthens resilience. When you step back, you create space for self-reflection, healing and growth - all of which are essential in high-pressure industries.”

Govender’s journey in entertainment has been marked by range and evolution. Known first for his work behind the scenes as a casting director, he transitioned into acting when he was cast in the Netflix drama “Blood Legacy”.

He originally joined the production as a background casting director, only to be offered the guest role of Kiroshan, a personal assistant to the powerful Premier Navi Naicker, played by Bianca Simone Mannie.

“My character’s name is Kiroshan,” Govender said. “And what I enjoyed most was his sense of style. It gave me a chance to bring something different to the screen.”

He described the experience as a surprise opportunity. “I was elated. Not only to act, but to collaborate with such talented people in our industry. It reminded me why I love storytelling.”

This was not his first time on screen. He previously made cameo appearances, including as Dr Patel in a local production and as a journalist in “Kings of Mulberry Street: The Sequel”. But “Blood Legacy" marked the first time many viewers noticed him in a central role.

“My colleagues and family are my biggest supporters,” he said. “They were surprised and proud when they saw me on screen.”

Outside the spotlight, Govender finds peace in quieter pursuits. “I write when I need to process. I listen to music when I need to calm down,” he said.

These habits, he explained, became essential during his time away.

He also serves as the chief executive officer of Starlight Casting Agency and as the executive producer at KG Castings and Productions, a KwaZulu-Natal–based casting directory and production house.

Govender is currently developing several projects of his own, focusing on creating opportunities rather than only seeking them. “I want to tell stories that matter,” he said. “Stories that reflect real lives.”

Looking ahead, he speaks not about fame, but about purpose. “My dream is to travel the world and work on international projects,” he said.