Mumbai: In a country where calling girls a burden is still prevalent, especially in rural areas, a recent episode of the iconic game show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ brought this issue to the limelight. Hosted by the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, the show witnessed a thought-provoking moment when a contestant shared his personal struggles and inadvertently highlighted a deep-seated societal prejudice.
The contestant, an engineer who lost his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, was candid about the challenges he faced being unemployed. He drew a controversial parallel by saying, “Agar mei kahu bina shadi ki ladki gharwalo par bojh hoti hai na sir, ek umar hone ke baad berozgar ladke utna hi bojh hote hai.” Translated, this means, “If I say that an unmarried girl becomes a burden on her family, similarly, an unemployed man of a certain age also becomes a burden.”
The moment he uttered these words, Amitabh Bachchan, affectionately known as Big B, interjected firmly but gracefully. “Ek baat batye aapko. Ladki joh hai bojh kabhi nai ban sakti. Bahut badi shaan hoti hai Mahila,” he said. This translates to, “Can I tell you one thing? A woman can never be a burden on the family. She is always an honor.”
This powerful statement was met with resounding applause from the live audience, underscoring the widespread agreement and recognition of Bachchan’s stance. Big B’s words resonated deeply, serving as a timely reminder of the intrinsic worth and dignity of women.
Amitabh Bachchan’s role as the host of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ has always gone beyond mere quizzing; he has used the platform to impart valuable life lessons. With his towering presence and empathetic approach, Big B has often tackled difficult conversations, breaking down stereotypes and challenging regressive mindsets.
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Bachchan’s perspective on women is rooted in his personal life. As the father of a daughter, Shweta Bachchan, he has always emphasized equality and has maintained that he sees no difference between his son, Abhishek Bachchan, and his daughter. There have been rumors circulating that he named his bungalow, Pratiksha, in Juhu, after his daughter, which further signifies his deep respect and love for her.
Big B’s intervention on the show not only served as a corrective measure for the contestant but also mirrored the changing attitudes towards women in contemporary India. Despite lingering traditional views, voices like Bachchan’s are instrumental in shifting perceptions and promoting a more progressive outlook.
This episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ is a testament to how popular media can play a pivotal role in societal change. It demonstrated how a single statement from a respected figure can spark conversations and potentially alter deep-rooted biases. The applause from the audience was not just for the revered actor’s words but for the recognition of a universal truth—that women, irrespective of their marital status, are not and should never be considered a burden.
As the show continues to air, moments like these reinforce why ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ remains a cherished program. It’s more than just a game show; it’s a cultural touchstone where entertainment meets education, and where societal norms are continually examined and redefined.
Amitabh Bachchan, through his impeccable hosting, continues to inspire millions. His stand on the issue reflects his commitment to gender equality and respect for women, which is a beacon for many of his fans and followers. In a society where the value of women is often undermined, voices like his provide hope and encouragement for a brighter, more equitable future.
As discussions around this episode continue, it’s clear that Big B’s message struck a chord with many, fostering a sense of pride and honor for women. This, in itself, is a significant step towards changing mindsets and ensuring that women are celebrated for their contributions—not just as daughters or wives, but as individuals in their own right.
