Mumbai: In a recent episode of the popular Indian game show, Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), hosted by the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, a noteworthy exchange took place that addressed pressing societal issues. The show, known for blending entertainment with insightful discussions, highlighted a deeply ingrained cultural issue when one of the contestants expressed his struggles related to unemployment and made a rather controversial statement. The contestant, an engineer who lost his job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, likened the plight of unemployed men to that of unmarried women, who he claimed are often considered burdens on their families in rural parts of India.
During his conversation with Big B, the contestant said, “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” (If I may say, just as an unmarried girl is considered a burden on her family, an unemployed man of a certain age is also seen as a burden).
Amitabh Bachchan, renowned not only for his acting prowess but also for his wisdom and gracious hosting, was quick to interrupt the contestant. With a tone of firm conviction, he responded, “Ek baat batye aapko. Ladki joh hai bojh kabhi nai ban sakti. Bahut badi shaan hoti hai Mahila” (Can I tell you one thing? A woman can never be a burden on the family. She is always an honor). The audience erupted in applause, resonating with the powerful message from the megastar.
This moment became a talking point, not just for the viewers of KBC but also across various platforms, sparking conversations about the status of women and the outdated notion of considering them burdens. Bachchan’s assertion was not just a remark on the game show but a reflection of his lifelong stance on gender equality.
Amitabh Bachchan, who has been hosting Kaun Banega Crorepati for decades, is known for his ability to weave life lessons into the fabric of the show. His statement is a testament to his enduring commitment to promoting positive societal values. This is not the first time Bachchan has used the platform to offer profound insights into social issues. His comments often echo his personal beliefs, and his widespread influence helps bring such critical topics into the public discourse.
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Bachchan himself is a father of a daughter, and his actions reflect his words. He has never shown a preference between his son Abhishek Bachchan and his daughter Shweta Bachchan. This approach has been a significant part of his public narrative, showing that his respect for women is not limited to his on-screen persona. In fact, there have been recent rumors suggesting that he named his bungalow Pratiksha, located in Juhu, after his daughter’s name.
The societal practice of considering unmarried daughters as burdens is particularly prevalent in rural areas, where cultural norms often dictate that a girl’s primary role is to marry and support her husband’s family. This outlook not only diminishes the value of women but also adds to the emotional and financial stress on families. Such deep-rooted beliefs continue to hinder the progress towards gender equality in various parts of India.
Amitabh Bachchan’s reaffirmation that women are an honor, and never a burden, serves as a significant counter-narrative to these outdated notions. It is crucial for public figures, especially those as influential as Bachchan, to challenge these entrenched beliefs. His statement carries the potential to inspire many and contribute to a gradual shift in societal attitudes towards women.
Kaun Banega Crorepati, through moments like these, transcends its primary function as a game show and becomes a platform for social change. Bachchan’s intervention not only educated the contestant but also the millions of viewers who tune in to watch the show. It encouraged a reconsideration of long-held prejudices and offered a vision of a society where women are celebrated and respected.
In conclusion, Amitabh Bachchan’s candid rebuke of the contestant’s comment on the recent KBC episode underscores the intrinsic value and honor of women, rejecting the notion that they could ever be considered burdens. His stance promotes a narrative of equality and respect, aligning with his lifelong advocacy for gender equality and using his significant platform to influence positive change in societal attitudes.
