Kangana Ranaut calls for child-friendly workplaces so women don't have to choose between family & career
Mumbai, June 1
Actress Kangana Ranaut, who will soon be seen in the upcoming drama "Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata," opened up about the various challenges faced by working mothers, expected to balance both family and career.
In a promotional interaction with co-stars Smita Tambe and Girija Oak published on the official handle of makers Pen Studios, the 'Queen' actress shared an incident from the shoot. Kangana remembered how Smita's daughters would often visit the set of "Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata".
This made Kangana realize that our workplaces are still not designed keeping working mothers in mind.
Pointing out that there were no rooms for children, the 'Tanu Weds Manu' actress said, "Smita ji's daughters used to come to the set, and Akshat's child was also there. They used to play there, so this question always came to my mind. We talk so much about having prayer rooms and other facilities at workplaces, but why are there no rooms for children?"
Kangana further pointed out that simply encouraging women to join and remain in the workforce is not enough; we also have to provide facilities so that mothers can bring their children to work without hesitation.
She added that while women are increasingly taking up demanding careers, the lack of support at the workplace often forces them to make the unfair choice between their families and professional ambitions.
"The government has a dream, and they want women to participate. When women participate on this scale, this will be a huge challenge. They will have only one choice - family or career. If you want women to go into this very aggressively, they need a lot of support," explained Kangana.
Talking about "Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata", besides Kangana, the film also stars Girija Oak, Smita Tambe, Amrutha Namdev, Esha Dey, Priya Berde, Asha Shelar, Suhita Thatte, Rasika Aghase, Aditya Mishra, and Zahid Khan in crucial roles, along with others.
Backed by Pen Studios, Manikarnika Films, Paramhans Creations, in association with Eunoia Films LLP and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, "Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata" is set for a theatrical release on June 12.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a working mother in Bangalore, I can relate 100%. Every day is a struggle juggling zoom calls and school drop-offs. The government's 'women-led development' agenda will remain hollow unless they mandate creches in all workplaces. But let's be honest - even if facilities exist, Indian society still judges mothers who work late. We need mindset change too.
Interesting perspective from Kangana. In the US, many companies have had on-site daycare for decades. India's IT sector is catching up but most other industries lag. The real challenge is cost - small businesses can't afford creches. Maybe tax incentives could help? Also, why isn't anyone talking about paternity leave? 😅
While I appreciate the sentiment, Kangana makes it sound like only women face this. What about single fathers? Or parents with disabled children? The issue is broader. Also, remember when she called farmers' protest 'Khalistani'? Hard to take her seriously on social issues when she's so divisive. But on this specific point - yes, we need child-friendly workplaces.
This is such an important conversation. In Australia, we have 'parents rooms' in most public buildings and many offices. India has a long way to go but starting the conversation is crucial. I hope 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata' also touches on these themes. The film's all-female lead cast is commendable! 🎬
Practical suggestion: Why don't housing societies near tech parks start community creches? My apartment complex in Hinjewadi, Pune does this - working parents pay Rs 5000/month
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.