Bollywood actress Mallika Sherawat, known for her bold roles and outspoken nature, has once again caught the public’s attention. This time, it’s not about her films but her heartfelt revelations about the struggles she faced growing up in a patriarchal household. As she promotes her latest film Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, co-starring Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri, Mallika has opened up about the harsh realities she endured as a young girl in Haryana.
Discrimination and Patriarchal Struggles
In a recent interview with Hauterrfly, Mallika Sherawat shared some shocking insights about her childhood. Born into a family that valued sons over daughters, she revealed that her birth was met with mourning. Her mother, she believes, slipped into depression due to the disappointment of not having a son.
“When I was born, mere pariwaar mein maatam chhaa gaya tha (there was mourning in my family). My mother, I’m sure, went into depression, poor thing,” Mallika said, highlighting how deeply entrenched patriarchal values dictated her family’s response to her birth.
Parents’ Lack of Support
Mallika recounted that throughout her life, she had little to no support from her parents. “I didn’t have anybody’s support. Neither my mother, nor my father supported me. My family did not support me,” she stated. This lack of familial support was not just emotional but also reflected in the way her family invested in her brother’s education and future, leaving her behind.
Her brother, being male, was sent abroad for studies, while she was considered a “liability.” She explained how her family would say, “Woh ladka hai, usko videsh bhejo, usko padhao, usmein paisa invest karo” (He’s a boy, send him abroad, educate him, invest in him). On the other hand, Mallika and other girls in her village were seen as burdens destined for marriage, with no investment in their future.
The Role of Women in Upholding Patriarchy
Interestingly, Mallika pointed out how women themselves contribute to maintaining these patriarchal values. “How men have treated women is a different thing, but what about how the women treat other women?” she questioned. She observed that often, it is women who enforce these societal restrictions on each other, limiting opportunities for growth and freedom.
Mallika’s struggle wasn’t unique, as she realized many girls in her village faced similar discrimination. This realization ignited a desire in her to challenge these oppressive norms and break free from the mold.
Restrictions and Stifled Dreams
Despite her interest in sports, Mallika revealed that she was discouraged from pursuing athletic activities. Her family was concerned about her becoming too masculine, which they believed would make her undesirable for marriage. “I was playing a lot of sports, secretly, because my family didn’t allow me saying, ‘You’ll become very masculine, manly. Who will marry you?’” she shared.
Her passion for sports had to be pursued in secret, and her personal growth was continuously stifled by the societal pressures to conform to traditional female roles.
Comeback with Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video
Mallika’s personal struggles didn’t stop her from pursuing her dreams, and after years of defying societal expectations, she made a strong mark in Bollywood. Following her standout performance in RK/RKay in 2022, Mallika has made her return to the big screen with Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, which hit theaters on October 11, 2024. Co-starring Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri, the film marks a new chapter in her career.
Final Thoughts
Mallika Sherawat’s story is a stark reminder of the deeply rooted patriarchal values that continue to oppress women in various parts of India. Her journey from being seen as a burden to becoming a Bollywood star is a testament to her resilience and determination. She not only broke free from societal chains but also continues to inspire others to question the norms that limit their potential.
Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video is out now, and with Mallika’s bold personality both on and off-screen, she continues to challenge conventions and pave the way for future generations of women.
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