The mega star’s regressive mindset stands exposed. talking about wanting a grandson to carry forward his legacy, he said,“he feels like he’s a ladies hostel warden, surrounded by women at his home.”
Megastar Chiranjeevi
In reel life, megastar Chiranjeevi is doing great. In real, he can do better. Chiranjeevi’s “sexist” comments at the Brahma Anandam pre-release event, where he was the chief guest, have come under severe criticism. At the event, the actor said he wants a grandson to carry forward his legacy. He also remarked that he feels like he is at a “ladies’ hostel” while at home, as he is surrounded by grand-daughters. He said, “When I’m at home, it doesn’t feel like I’m surrounded by my granddaughters; it feels like I’m a ladies’ hostel warden, surrounded by ladies all around. I keep wishing and telling (Ram) Charan, at least this time, have a boy so that our legacy continues, but his daughter is the apple of his eye... I’m scared that he might again have a girl.”
At a time when women are outshining men in various fields, Chiranjeevi’s comments prove that in this day and age too, bias against girlchild runs deep in families. While celebrities are expected to set an example, what with millions following them, Chiranjeevi displayed a mindset unbecoming of a hero.
BOYS, STILL THE PREFERRED GENDER
Sunil Jaglan, an activist working on education and rights of girlchild in Harayana, is not surprised at Chiranjeevi’s comments. “Both men and even women to some extent prefer a son over a daughter. This is quite prevalent among people across the country,” points out Jaglan, whose efforts for empowering the girl child were lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. Whether a person is a celebrity or a common man, they feel only a boy can carry forward the family legacy. “A lot of Chiranjeevi’s films portray patriarchy. But his true thoughts have come out in real life,” says the activist, who has launched multiple initiatives in support of the girl child, particularly the “selfie with daughter” and “kuldeepak” initiatives.
Sunil says Chiranjeevi’s comments come at a time when female foeticide goes on unabated across the country. “We strive for a future where open dialogue about gender equality and women’s rights fosters profound cultural shifts, leading to a community where every individual, regardless of gender, embraces and champions equality, respect, and empowerment,” he says.
PATRIARCHAL MINDSET
Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Founder-Director, Manasthali Wellness, feels this is the basic premise of a patriarchal mindset, which has been the cause of discrimination against women. “While women are waking up to their rights, men continue to lag behind, and this is visible in the remarks and comments made by politicians, actors, and other people in the limelight,” she says.
Since Donald Trump’s victory in US elections, he is known to have orthodox and racist tendencies; men with similar thought processes have become more vocal about their beliefs, she feels. “It’s unfortunate but true that patriarchy very much exists among people across the world.”
LEGACY IS NO LONGER ABOUT GENDER
Bindya Talluri, an influencer and founder of Bindt Beauty, feels Chiranjeevi’s comments stem from traditional thinking, which many families across generations have held. “However, legacy is no longer just about gender; it’s about values, impact, and the love one leaves behind. Today, we see incredible women carrying forward family traditions, excelling in every field, and shaping history in their own right,” she points out. What defines a legacy isn’t whether it’s a son or daughter continuing it, but the strength, compassion, and principles that are passed on. “Chiranjeevi has inspired mil- lions through his work and humanitarian efforts, and I’m sure the next generation, regardless of gender, will continue to make the family proud,” says Bindya.
Amritha Shenoy, Director, TMV Natural Oils & Extracts Pvt. Ltd., echoes similar sentiments. “Legacy is not defined by gender; it’s carried forward by dedication and vision,” she says. As the third generation leading the company founded by her grandfather and built by her father, Amritha takes pride in continuing their work. “And my father? He’s more than happy; he says I’m as capable as three sons!” smiles Amritha.
Even Pallavi Bhatia, Founder and CEO, Olfa Originals has similar views, she says, “Legacy is more than inheritance; it is an essence that lingers, much like a fine perfume. My grandfather built a craft rooted in passion, and today, I carry it forward — not just as a duty, but as an honour. Daughters, too, can preserve and reinvent tradition, ensuring that the stories, scents, and soul of a family business live on.”
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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