In a memorable address at the Global Education & Skills Forum in Dubai in 2018, global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas was confronted with an intriguing question that continues to linger in public discourse: “Why is it that a feminist never takes a stand for a man who is physically abused?” In typical Priyanka fashion, her answer was as enlightening as it was impactful.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a celebrated figure in both the Bollywood and Hollywood arenas, celebrates her birthday on July 18th. From her early days as Miss World at the tender age of 18, she has been indefatigable in her mission to empower women around the globe. Through her various philanthropic endeavors and outspoken public speeches, Priyanka has consistently demonstrated a commitment to elucidating what feminism truly encompasses.
In 2017, during an interview with Variety, Priyanka unapologetically identified as a feminist, perplexed by those who hesitated to embrace the term. “I see so many girlfriends of mine who are like, ‘No, I’m not that much of a feminist.’ I don’t even understand that,” she remarked. “The need for feminism was created because there were no rights for women. That’s why there is not a man-ism, because they always had it. Feminism is not about berating or hating men or disliking or trying to make sure we’re better than men.”
Instead, Priyanka emphasized, “Feminism is just saying, give me opportunities without judging me for the decisions that I make—the same freedom that men have enjoyed for so many centuries. Feminism needs men. It needs the men in their lives to stand up for their mothers, their sisters, their girlfriends, their wives, their daughters and say that I’m going to change the game for my future generation.”
This sentiment was echoed in her response at the Dubai forum when the question of feminists standing up for abused men arose. Priyanka clarified, “Physiologically men and women are different. There is no debate about it. When we talk about equality and opportunity, we talk about cerebral opportunity. We are not saying we want to be able to be like a 200-pound man and beat the sh*t out of somebody else. We are not saying that.
. We are saying you give the ability to get the job, to be the CEO, and nobody questions when you’re driven at 50 and have three children, ‘how are you managing?’ Don’t question me at all. That’s what I am saying. I can be a CEO and a mother.”
Priyanka has long been an advocate for equal opportunities and insists that questioning the capabilities of women, especially when they juggle multiple roles, is an outdated practice. Her impassioned speeches continue to inspire many, affirming the importance of a holistic understanding of feminism.
In addition to her advocacy, Priyanka continues to make waves in the acting world. Up next on her cinematic horizon is “The Bluff,” a soon-to-be-released film directed by Frank E. Flowers. Set in the 19th-century Caribbean, the movie centers on a former female pirate, portrayed by Priyanka, who must protect her family when the sins of her past come back to haunt her. Helmed by Russo Brothers’ AGBO Studios and Amazon MGM Studios, the film promises an exhilarating adventure for its audience. Karl Urban, known for his role in the hit series “The Boys,” is also in talks to join the cast.
Moreover, fans can look forward to seeing Priyanka in the OTT offering “Heads of State,” starring alongside John Cena and Idris Elba. This upcoming action-comedy, which also features Jack Quaid, is generating a substantial buzz. On the Bollywood front, she is set to appear in Farhan Akhtar’s next directorial venture, “Jee Le Zaraa,” where she will be sharing the screen with Bollywood stalwarts Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt. However, further updates about this much-anticipated project have been sparse since its announcement.
As Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to leave her mark across various industries, her relentless advocacy for women’s rights remains a central part of her identity. By tirelessly clarifying and championing the true essence of feminism, she not only empowers women but also invites a global audience to reconsider their understanding of gender equality.
Her presence both on and off-screen serves as a testament to her dedication to this cause, proving that she is much more than an actress; she is a global icon and an unwavering advocate for change. As we await her future projects, Priyanka’s voice remains a crucial beacon in the ongoing dialogue about feminism and equality.
