6 Times When Mallika Sherawat Stood Strong For Women

Six fierce moments when Mallika Sherawat broke barriers and championed women's rights.
  • Amit Diwan
  • Editorial
  • Updated - 2024-10-19, 17:23 IST
Mallika Sherawat Stood Strong For Women

Growing up in the 2000s, I remember how the media portrayed Mallika Sherawat. She was often labelled as "bold" or a "sex symbol," which seemed to oversimplify who she really was.

Mallika burst onto the scene with her role in Murder, a film that became a cult classic. However, instead of being recognised for her talent, she was often reduced to the stereotype of a "hot actress." The media's narrow lens painted her as someone who didn't fit the conventional mould of femininity. At that time, I didn’t realise how unfair this was. Looking back, it’s clear that Mallika was simply ahead of her time.

Recently, I listened to a podcast featuring Mallika Sherawat hosted by Ranveer Allahbadia. It was an eye-opener. The perceptions I had formed about her were challenged as she shared her journey and experiences. Mallika revealed that she has always lived life on her own terms and has never shied away from speaking her mind.

In the podcast, she discussed how society often shames women from birth, dictating how they should look and behave. This pervasive control through shame is something Mallika has faced herself. She recalled how her effigies were burned in 2004 due to public backlash, but she emerged stronger from that experience.

Mallika Sherawat Stood Strong For Women

Mallika Sherawat on India's Gender Issues

Mallika has consistently spoken out against the regressive attitudes women face, both in Bollywood and society at large. At a 2013 event for The Bachelorette India Mere Khayalon Ki Mallika, she didn't mince words when addressing India's treatment of women.

When questioned about her previous statement calling India "regressive for women," she stood her ground, saying, "With female infanticide happening almost daily, with gang rapes making headlines, and with honour killings... According to UNFPA, 40% of Indian women are married below the age of 18. I think it's a very regressive state for women, and I stand by that."

Her candid response highlighted critical issues often swept under the rug, showcasing her commitment to sparking uncomfortable but necessary conversations.

Mallika Sherawat Exposing the Culture of Shame

In her revealing podcast with Ranveer Allahbadia (aka BeerBiceps), Mallika opened up about how society shames women from the moment they are born. She explained how girls are judged for their bodies, voices, and choices. "Women are constantly told how to behave, how to dress, and what to think," she said. This kind of control through shame is pervasive, and Mallika faced this herself when her effigies were burned in 2004, but she emerged stronger.

Mallika Sherawat on Plastic Surgery

In a podcast with The Male Feminist, Sherawat took a strong stance against the pressure on women to alter their appearances, stating, "I love keeping myself fit, but I don't support plastic surgery. It breaks my heart to see beautiful women disfiguring their faces. Your self-worth isn't tied to a botox injection."

Her words serve as a powerful reminder that true beauty comes from self-acceptance and health, not conforming to unrealistic standards.

Mallika Sherawat on Feminism

In the same podcast, when asked about feminism, she said, “For me, feminism is about having the same opportunities as men to shape your own life. It’s about controlling your own destiny and making independent decisions, whether they’re right or wrong. We shouldn’t view life through a patriarchal lens; we need to form our own opinions and judgments—that's the biggest lesson. It’s a great time to be a woman; I love being a woman in this moment.”

Mallika Sherawat on the “Sex Symbol" Label

During her podcast, Mallika questioned the label of "sex symbol." She asked, "What is this sex symbol? I am a woman. What does it mean? Yes, I am a woman. I enjoy being a woman. Does that make me a sex symbol?" She highlighted the lack of a clear definition for such terms and noted how cinema often portrays real emotions and passion. "How would you portray passion on screen? In this age, show two flowers blooming in the name of sex scenes," she said, showcasing her understanding of the art.

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Mallika Sherawat on Childhood Gender Discrimination

Sherawat's advocacy is deeply personal and rooted in her own experiences with gender discrimination. She shared, "I evolved out of patriarchy. Growing up, I saw how differently my parents treated me compared to my brother. It took me years to understand and challenge this inequality."

Reflecting on Mallika Sherawat's journey, it's clear that she's been much more than just a Bollywood actress. She's been a fierce advocate for women's rights, often speaking out when others remained silent.

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