Yami Gautam: Feminism has plenty of definitions, don't agree with some of them
Mumbai, Nov 10
Actress Yami Gautam, who essays the role of Shazia Bano in the recently released film 'Haq', has said that feminism as an ideology has many definitions today, and she may not agree with all of them.
The actress spoke with IANS at a 5-star property in the Juhu area of Mumbai during the promotional leg of the film. While she called 'Haq', a deeply feminist film, she said that the ideology of feminism has evolved with time, and entails a few things which she may not agree with.
Talking about the film, she told IANS, "If you have courage to tell the story of, which is inspired by a really courageous woman, woman of substance, a woman of feminism, she is, I feel a true blue example of what feminism is".
"There are a lot of definitions of feminism today, and I may not agree with some of them. True feminism is not fighting the other person, it is about standing up for yourself, for your children, for what you know is right, is rightfully yours, it is as basic as that, so then, yeah, so that is my approach", she added.
Feminism is a social and political movement advocating gender equality and women's rights. The First Wave Feminism, which started in the late 19th and went on till early 20th century, fought for legal rights, especially suffrage. The Second Wave (1960s-1980s) expanded to workplace equality, reproductive rights, and challenging gender roles.
The Third Wave (1990s-2000s) embraced diversity, intersectionality, and individual empowerment. The Fourth Wave (2010s-present) harnesses digital activism against sexism and harassment, exemplified by the #MeToo movement. Across these waves, feminism has reshaped societies, granting women voting rights, education, economic independence, and bodily autonomy, transforming them from marginalized voices into active participants and leaders in public, political, and cultural life.
Like every ideology, feminism has evolved over time, and includes certain extreme elements, similar to every ideology. Yami Gautam's remark serves as the perfect 'checks and balances' to keep the movement on right path.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally someone said it! Some modern feminist ideas feel too extreme for Indian society. We need balanced feminism that works within our family structure.
As a working woman in Mumbai, I appreciate Yami's nuanced take. Feminism isn't one-size-fits-all. What works in Western countries might not suit Indian women's realities. We need our own version of empowerment.
While I respect Yami's opinion, I feel we shouldn't dismiss different feminist perspectives. The movement needs to be inclusive of all women's experiences, including those who challenge traditional structures.
Good to see Bollywood celebrities talking about meaningful topics. Yami's definition of feminism as "standing up for what's rightfully yours" makes perfect sense in Indian context. Looking forward to watching 'Haq'!
True feminism is exactly what Yami described - it's about empowerment, not aggression. In our Indian families, women have always been strong pillars. Modern feminism should build on that strength, not destroy it. ðŸ‘
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.