Bollywood's influence in India is massive. The stars not only have the power to infuse new thoughts, but also have the capacity to bring about changes in our society. When a celebrity speaks up for a social cause, it creates a bigger impact. With the subject of women's empowerment gaining momentum, we find many celebs speaking up for women. So here are 10 such instances.
Priyanka Chopra
She is an ideal feminist. Her speech on 'Breaking the glass ceiling' is phenomenal. PC has always shown massive support to women causes. Priyanka as a UNICEF Global Goodwill Ambassador promotes child welfare across the globe and aims to provide a better future for the next generation.
Shabana Azmi
Her work clearly depicts her stand on equality of sexes. She is a social activist raising issues on child welfare and women’s rights. She had even got bald for a film (Fire) portraying homosexuality.
Kangana Ranaut
She is one of the boldest actresses in our film industry. Kangana speaks her mind and is proud of her struggles that brought her to the stage where she is. “Women's empowerment does not mean you create complex among men. Then it will take 20 more years to empower men. It is all about evolving as a soul, as a human being. It does not mean that you become a sexist,” she has said.
Aamir Khan
The quality over quantity aptitude in Aamir's work is well known. Shows like Satyamev Jayate and his movies like Dangal, show an open support for women's uplift and empowerment. His recent ad campaign “Shoon te Shaan” echoes the cause for women's empowerment.
Farhan Akhtar
Farhan Akhtar supports the cause of women's empowerment through his social campaign ‘MARD’. He is also the first male UN women Goodwill ambassador for Southeast Asia. In his tweet, he describes the definition of a ‘Mard’ as “If you are a man who respects women, her rights, her dignity, her independence, her mind, her body, her life, you are a #MARD”.
Rahul Bose
His recent production of “Poorna” shows the story of a girl who reaches new heights in spite of all the challenges. Her story is a true empowering one. He has also started an organization called “The Foundation” which works on the lines of equality and supports marginalized groups.”
Kalki Koechlin
She is vocal on feminist issues. Her movies, her ">youtube videos are always challenging the deep seated patriarchy. In one of her interviews, she said, "I’ve always believed that the sisterhood, the idea of sharing women’s stories, understanding other women, knowing that you are not alone is very empowering."
Konkana Sen
She contributes to women's empowerment by portraying strong female characters in her films. In one of her interviews, she says, “We should be talking to young boys about consent at very young age.” Her movies like 'Lipstick under my Burkha' are powerful examples of feminism in India. She has also shown her support to #MeToo campaign at various platforms.
Anushka Sharma
She never hesitates in speaking up for social causes. In her photoshoot with Vogue, she wears a T-Shirt which says, “We all should be feminists.” Her tweet on Women’s Day is an inspiring one. “Bravo to all the women who show courage in the toughest situations in life. That's the true essence of being a woman.”
Swara Bhaskar
“In a developing society, why isn’t the traditional mindset sparing us? Be shameless and free of the burden of these values. Be selfish now onwards,” Swara said while receiving an award at Delhi Commission. A sociology honors student, Swara Bhaskar brings crisp and unique perspective through her movies and speeches.
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Rachna Chandira is an intern with SheThePeople.Tv