Shabana Azmi recalls being questioned for ironing husband Javed Akhtar’s kurta; ‘Koi samajh hi nahi hai ki feminist ka matlab kya hai’

As a lifestyle expert with a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories that shape our society, I find myself deeply inspired by the words and actions of Shabana Azmi. Her unwavering commitment to breaking barriers and championing equality is truly commendable, and her ability to navigate complex conversations with grace and wisdom is a testament to her experience and maturity.


Veteran actress Shabana Azmi frequently employs her influence and celebrity status to discuss significant issues within the industry and society as a whole. She is among those female celebrities who have shattered barriers and advocated for equality in the entertainment world, creating a more straightforward path for today’s actresses. Lately, she reminisced about being criticized for being a feminist due to ironing her husband Javed Akhtar’s shirt. The seasoned star expressed annoyance at people’s misconceptions about the term.

In a chat with Faye D’ Souza on her YouTube Channel, Shabana Azmi expressed her frustration that people don’t seem to grasp what feminism is. She clarified that the misconception persists of associating it with ‘bra-burning women’, and that many people are still uninformed about its true meaning. To further illustrate this point, she recounted an instance where she was criticized for ironing her husband’s shirt, veteran screenwriter Javed Akhtar’s kurta.

In retrospect, the actress from Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani shared an encounter she had in America. She was ironing Akhtar’s shirt when another woman questioned her feminist beliefs since she was ironing her husband’s clothes. The actress countered by asking if it had anything to do with feminism, and the other woman retorted, “So he won’t iron your sari?” Without hesitation, Azmi declared that she would never let her husband perform such a task. When discussing this interaction, the National Award-winning actress commented on the lack of understanding people have regarding these issues, saying, “Are you saying ‘I am not a feminist?’ Have you ever pondered over it? There’s no clarity.

In the same conversation, she likewise imparted her perspective on feminism, emphasizing that it encompasses an entirely distinct outlook on life. She explained further that men and women are not superior or inferior, but uniquely different. Azmi advocated for embracing these differences and recognizing the equality of all while acknowledging their differences. Furthermore, she pointed out that for far too long, solutions to problems have been primarily tailored to a male perspective. However, modern feminists assert that they deserve a place at the table in these discussions.

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2024-10-27 20:07