Public figures, especially celebrities, hold immense influence over societal attitudes. When male actors make sexist, insensitive, or outright misogynistic remarks, they do more than just stir controversy—they reinforce deeply entrenched patriarchal biases that continue to plague society.
Recently, veteran actor Chiranjeevi made headlines for an unfortunate remark expressing his desire for his son to have a male child, citing an excess of girls in the family. Whether intended as a casual comment or reflecting a personal belief, the statement was a stark reminder of India’s long-standing preference for male heirs. Such remarks, when made by influential figures, normalize outdated mindsets, sending the wrong message to society.
Chiranjeevi is not alone in this. Social media influencer Andrew Tate has built a following on blatantly misogynistic views, claiming that women belong in the home and are a man’s property. In India, Salman Khan once trivialized the trauma of sexual assault by comparing his film shooting experience to that of a “raped woman.” Such comments not only highlight a lack of awareness but also trivialize the struggles that women face daily.
Bollywood’s Gender Bias: A Deeper Problem
The film industry, particularly Bollywood, has long been a breeding ground for gender inequality. Male actors enjoy longer, more lucrative careers, while women’s careers often decline once they reach their 30s. The wage gap between male and female actors remains staggering, with even the most successful actresses earning only a fraction of what their male counterparts do.
Beyond pay disparity, Bollywood’s portrayal of women in cinema has historically been problematic. Female characters are frequently objectified or confined to roles that emphasize subservience—the docile wife, the obedient daughter-in-law, or the glamorous love interest. In contrast, male leads are glorified, their characters exuding strength, power, and decision-making authority. Although recent years have seen strong female-led narratives, much work remains to break these cinematic stereotypes.
The Cultural Obsession with Male Offspring
Chiranjeevi’s remark is just one example of a larger societal issue—India’s obsession with having a male child. The preference for sons stems from deep-rooted patriarchal beliefs, which assign men the role of family heirs, breadwinners, and performers of last rites. Despite India’s economic and social progress, many families still celebrate the birth of a son while treating the birth of a daughter with indifference or disappointment.
This gender bias extends beyond birth and affects women’s rights in marriage. Even today, many Indian marriages operate on unequal terms, with women expected to prioritize household duties over careers, while men retain greater financial and social autonomy. The dowry system, though legally abolished, continues to persist, leading to tragic cases of harassment and violence against women.
The Silver Lining: Changing Mindsets and the Path Forward
Despite these challenges, positive change is emerging. Women are breaking barriers, proving that gender should never be a limitation. A shining example is Sanjna Jatav, a 26-year-old Dalit woman from Rajasthan who became the youngest-ever Member of Parliament with the full support of her husband. Stories like hers serve as an inspiration and reinforce the importance of dismantling patriarchal norms.
Celebrities, with their millions of followers and cultural impact, have a responsibility to reshape gender narratives, rather than reinforce regressive ideals. They must choose their words wisely, promote strong female role models, and actively work toward gender sensitivity in the entertainment industry. Ignoring these issues or making sexist remarks under the guise of humor is not just irresponsible—it is damaging.
True Progress Lies in Gender Equality
India has come a long way in its fight for women’s rights, but the battle is far from over. True progress will only be achieved when society stops viewing gender as a determinant of worth and embraces equality in every sphere—from the workplace to the home, from the big screen to real life. Celebrities must use their influence for good, ensuring that regressive mindsets are replaced with progressive action. Only then can we hope to build a society where gender equality is not just an aspiration, but a reality.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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