“Teach Children That Girls Wearing Shorts Is Normal”: Actress Prajakta Hanamghar Speaks Out on Gender Equality

While discussions surrounding societal equality continue to gain momentum, actress Prajakta Hanamghar has emphasized the need to tackle gender discrimination at its root—starting with childhood upbringing. Instead of imposing restrictive rules on girls while granting unchecked freedom to boys, she advocates for raising children in a truly gender-neutral environment.

In a recent interview with BBC Marathi, Hanamghar shared her clear and candid views on how parents, particularly mothers, play a crucial role in inculcating values of equality from an early age. She highlighted that societal restrictions placed on young women should be matched by equal accountability and open dialogue with young men.

“I think the involvement of mothers is especially crucial,” Prajakta stated. “You tell girls to be home by seven o’clock, but you should also ask your boys what they are doing after seven. You tell girls that certain clothes cause problems, but instead, you should teach your sons that it is normal. If it’s normal for a boy to walk around in shorts, it’s just as normal for a girl to do so. Just like boys, girls can have their own choices.”

 

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Key Takeaways from Prajakta Hanamghar’s Interview

• Gender-Neutral Parenting: Parents must dismantle double standards regarding curfews, clothing choices, and personal freedom.
• Basic Life Skills Over Gender Roles: Cooking and household management should be viewed as essential life skills for everyone, rather than duties reserved solely for women.
• Building a Genderless Society: Moving away from rigid gender expectations will create a more empathetic, balanced, and happier society for the future.

Prajakta also challenged the traditional division of household labor, arguing against the notion that cooking is inherently a woman’s job. She noted that basic self-sufficiency is a necessary skill for all individuals, regardless of gender.

By instilling equality early in life and dismantling gendered expectations around work, clothing, and lifestyle, Hanamghar believes society can become far more inclusive, peaceful, and enjoyable for everyone.