Feminism is the most misinterpreted word. Quite simply, feminism is about all genders having equal rights and opportunities. It's about respecting diverse women's experiences, identities, knowledge and strengths. For me, it is simply equality. Feminism is a necessity. It is the need of our society because we are living in a patriarchal society. We are living in a society that is controlled by men in which they use their power to their own advantage, she said.
She was in conversation with Ritu Shah, Chairperson of the FICCI Ladies Organisation on Saturday in the city at a function. Prior to that she performed a monologue. It was a strong monologue with a very strong message about THE TRUTHS OF WOMANHOOD and patriarchal Indian society.
Welcoming the gathering Ritu Shah, Chairperson of FLO quoting Maya Angelow, writer, poet and activist, said I would like to be known as an intelligent woman, a courageous woman, a loving woman, a woman who teaches by being. And how appropriate and powerful this quotation is when we discuss women's empowerment, she said.
It takes guts and gumption to stand up and speak what's on your mind. History and modern times are filled with examples of individuals who, armed with conviction and courage, voiced unpopular opinions or truths. They did so kknowing the risks, yet believing in the importance of their message. One such voice that has echoed powerfully across stages and screens, resonating with women and men alike, is that of Kalki Koechlin (Keklan). Through her honest and evocative monologues, Kalki has fearlessly shed light on societal truths, navigating the intricate maze of womanhood in today's world. She's not just a performer; she's a mirror, reflecting the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of countless women, Ritu Shah added.
After a 20-minute monologue on Truths of Womanhood, Kalki Koechlin interacted with Ms. Ritu Shah.
The partners have equal responsibility in raising the child. The other day I was in Munich. I found a man in a bathroom, taking care of the baby. But in our society, it is deemed that a woman’s responsibility is to take care of the child. We must start talking and questioning some of the issues like this. We give up our careers for our family. Then we are seen as superwomen. If not, we are seen as a bad mother. Our society has a huge expectation from women, said Kalki Koechlin.
We must treat our boys the way we treat our daughters. We must question them. We must make them more responsible, she said.
Speaking about Mental Health she said, it is not taboo to talk about mental health. Mental well-being is very important. Our children must be counselled well in schools, she said
Replying to a question about her raising, she said my skin is white and my heart is brown. Born in South India, I grew up in an Indian environment and a French family connection.
When asked how she managed to sustain being in Bollywood for such a long time, she said I am an artist. I find a way to express myself. When you express, you connect. When you connect, you forge a relationship. That is my survivalmantra in Bollywood, she said.
Comments