Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, known for his impactful roles and outspoken nature, is once again in the limelight. However, this time, the buzz is around a recently resurfaced video from the late 1990s where a younger Akshay shares his thoughts on a topic that has remained relevant throughout the years—women’s careers after marriage. The emergence of this video has rekindled discussions about gender roles within the film industry and beyond, highlighting persistent societal expectations.
In the video, Akshay addresses a longstanding stereotype: the belief that a woman’s career often takes a backseat post-marriage, especially in the glamorous world of Bollywood. He candidly expresses his observations from his early years in the industry, stating, “I don’t think so. It is like that. But basically, what happens is that after the heroine gets married, she just stops working or her husband stops working. So these are the basic kinds of things that happen. That’s why she goes or leaves the industry. That’s what I have seen in the industry for two and a half years—what I’ve seen.”
This statement, reflective of that era, poses a critical question about the societal norms women face, particularly those in high-profile careers. Akshay further elaborates by offering a more optimistic view, suggesting that marriage need not be an end to a heroine’s career. He emphasizes, “I think she can still carry on; why not? I mean to maintain her figure and be perfect. After all, she is a heroine; she can carry on. She has been carrying on since so many years. What is marriage? Marriage is just being with her, and after work is aside, and she can still carry on. And there are many heroines after marriage; also, when I see them, they still maintain themselves so well.”
Akshay Kumar’s perspective, as presented in this vintage clip, is indicative of the era’s challenges while simultaneously challenging those very notions.
. His comments proposed a narrative that was progressive for its time, suggesting a woman’s right and capability to continue pursuing her ambitions regardless of marital status. This conversation, brought back to current times by the resurfacing of the video, resonates with today’s broader discourse on gender equality in the workforce.
Akshay himself married fellow actor Twinkle Khanna in 2001, a union that has remained strong over the years. Twinkle, although she took a step back from acting post-marriage, carved out her own niche. She is a celebrated author, columnist, and runs her successful YouTube channel and digital platform “Tweak,” which focuses on empowering modern Indian women through discourse and storytelling on diverse issues. Twinkle’s journey exemplifies the idea that women can transition between phases in their lives and continue to achieve substantial success.
The old video has generated a fresh round of discourse on social media, with users reflecting on how perceptions have shifted—or not—since the 1990s. Many praise Akshay for his insight during his early years, while some critique the often simplistic lens through which women’s choices and societal expectations are viewed.
This incident underscores the power of historical media to influence and reignite conversations with contemporary relevance. Bollywood, like many other industries, has witnessed gradual but noticeable progress regarding gender roles. In recent years, several actresses have defied conventional expectations by continuing successful careers post-marriage and motherhood, busting stereotypes and inspiring a new generation.
Moreover, the commercial and critical success of films headlined by leading actresses in significant roles showcases this transformation. It suggests a slow cultural shift, where a woman’s marriage or motherhood doesn’t necessarily dictate the end of her career, but rather, it becomes just another chapter of her multifaceted life.
The ongoing conversation fueled by Akshay Kumar’s resurfaced video highlights how entertainment figures can use their platform to challenge norms and advocate for a more balanced perspective on gender roles. As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle women face in balancing personal choices with professional aspirations.
Ultimately, this resurfaced footage of Akshay Kumar serves not only as a portal into the past views on women’s roles in entertainment but also as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue about equality in career opportunities following life milestones such as marriage. It stands as a testament to the idea that while times have changed, the necessity for these discussions remains as pertinent as ever.
