Mallika Sherawat’s Old ‘India Is Regressive for Women’ Video Goes Viral, Amidst Kolkata Case

In a world where instances of harassment and molestation occur at alarming rates, the recent Kolkata rape case has stirred deep emotions across the nation. The victim, a woman doctor, has sparked outrage and protests, highlighting the severity of violence against those who are supposed to save lives. Amidst this tragic incident, an old video of Mallika Sherawat’s bold and powerful statements about India’s treatment of women has resurfaced, going viral on social media.

The video, shared on Reddit, features Mallika Sherawat, a popular actress from the 2000s known for her outspoken nature and fearless approach to speaking the truth. In this decade-old interaction with the media, she made headlines for calling India “regressive and depressing”, particularly in its treatment of women. Her words, although controversial at the time, are now being lauded for their blunt honesty and relevance.

In the video, Mallika Sherawat was questioned about her desire to find true love in India despite her critical views of the country. She responded assertively, stating, “Indian society is regressive for women”. She elaborated on her stance by highlighting the harsh realities of female foeticide, infanticide, gang rapes and honour killings that plague the country. Sherawat emphasized that these issues are not isolated incidents but are reported daily in newspapers, reflecting a “very, very regressive state for women”.

Sherawat also mentioned reading about UNFPA report in newspaper, which stated that 40% of Indian women are married before the age of 18. She strongly believes that these facts are indicative of a deeply regressive society for women. When the media questioned her representation of India on an international platform, she firmly replied, “I’m never going to lie. There’s hypocrisy in our society, where people do one thing and showcase something else.”

The viral video has reignited discussions online, with many praising Mallika Sherawat for her courage and honesty. The Reddit post caption read, “It’s been almost 10 years since Mallika Sherawat spoke out against the media and societal hypocrisy, and she deserves accolades for her forthrightness. Sadly, not much has improved since then.” Some commenters noted that the situation for women has worsened, while others admired her for having the courage to speak out, something they believe few actors today wouldn’t dare to do.

Mallika Sherawat’s recent Instagram post also featured the same, recalling the backlash she faced for speaking out against gang rapes and sexual violence in India. In her caption, she wrote, “I still can’t forget this moment when I was attacked & bullied by a certain section of the Indian press for speaking out against gang rapes and sexual violence in India! Some WOMEN in the press and some very big names Bollywood FEMALE ACTRESSES joined the chorus & publicly attacked me for speaking out.”

This viral resurgence of Mallika Sherawat’s bold statements serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles many women face in India. It also encourages others to speak out against injustice, no matter how daunting it may be. Beyond her successful film career, Sherawat has consistently used her platform to address women’s issues, including discussing these matters at the 65th United Nations DPI/NGO Conference in 2014.

Today, Mallika Sherawat lives in Los Angeles, having moved there many years ago. Although she left Bollywood, her powerful voice continues to resonate, inspiring many to fight for the cause she so passionately advocates.

Also Read: “It Was Very Difficult To Direct Katrina Kaif In Malliswari,” Filmmaker Vijaya Bhaskar On Actress’ Telugu Debut Film