Shilpa Shinde says she does 'not like women smoking', prefers seeing them in sarees with a strong mindset
Mumbai, June 22
Actress Shilpa Shinde has weighed in on the evolving definition of feminism and modern womanhood.
The actress expressed her thoughts, stating that true empowerment stems from confidence, values, and self-awareness rather than smoking or wearing revealing clothes in the name of modernity or so-called boldness.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Shilpa described herself as "a little orthodox" when it comes to certain personal beliefs and admitted that she is uncomfortable seeing women smoke, calling it 'being modern'.
"Actually, I am a little orthodox. Very frankly, I don't like seeing women smoke. That's my personal opinion and that's why I say I am a little orthodox in that way," the actress said.
Shilpa clarified that she does not equate smoking, drinking, or dressing a certain way with being bold or empowered.
"Boldness is different. Just because someone smokes, drinks, or wears certain clothes doesn't make them bold. That is not what boldness is," she explained.
During the conversation, actress Pervein Dastur also pointed out that appearances can often be deceptive, saying, "I have seen young girls in salwar-kameez standing at paan shops and smoking. So unassuming looking and such young girls, smoking."
Agreeing with his observation, Shilpa emphasized that clothes and mindset are two completely different things.
"I like women wearing sarees, but I am not talking about clothes. A woman should know herself, her values, and who she is. That's what matters," she said.
"A lot of girls think that by wearing something short and in particular they will look bolder, but it's not like that. You can wear a saree or modern clothes, whatever you want. Your clothes don't define your mindset, and your mindset doesn't depend on your clothes," Shilpa said.
Shilpa concluded by saying that feminism, in her view, is about carrying one's values with confidence, and not confusing external appearances with empowerment.
On the professional front, Shilpa Shinde who was last seen in her series, 'Margao Files' has been receiving great response to her project as well as character portrayal.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I agree with her point about mindset, but why specifically target women? Smoking is unhealthy for everyone regardless of gender. Also, what about men smoking in public? Double standards much? 🤔
As a young woman who wears both sarees and western wear, I get what she's saying. True feminism is about choice - choosing what makes you comfortable, not what society dictates. But her comment about smoking seems unnecessarily judgmental. Live and let live, yaar! ✌️
Shilpa ji is speaking like a typical aunty from my building! 😂 But honestly, she has a valid point. I've seen girls who think wearing shorts makes them 'bold' but can't even speak up for themselves. Confidence comes from within, not from what you wear or smoke.
Respect her for speaking her mind, but this feels like gatekeeping. Some women find confidence in wearing what they want and smoking if they choose. Let's not create new rules for what 'real' empowerment looks like. Women should define their own feminism.
Her point about mindset vs clothes is spot on. I've seen women in sarees run multinational companies and women in shorts who lack confidence. But the smoking comment? That's her personal choice to dislike it - fair enough. We all have our preferences. Just don't judge others based on yours.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.