International Women’s Day 2019: Here’s what the TV celebs have to say

The world celebrates ‘International Women’s Day’ today. For Manali Manisha Dey, and Gourab Roy Chowdhury, the day has a special significance as they dedicate it to their mothers, who helped them in every single step. While some actors like Sweta Mishra or Roshni Bhattacharyya went a step ahead and requested everyone to stop stereotyping or demeaning women while using slang. Here’s what our popular television celebs have to say about the day... (Photo: Facebook)

The actress is presently playing the character Shabnam in ‘Nakshi Kantha’, who isn’t afraid of raising her voice against wrong deeds or pursuing her studies going against her orthodox family. The actor, who portrays a strong woman on-screen, feels every single day should be celebrated as Women’s Day. “I have seen my mother running a dance school and yet performing every single responsibility with perfection, just like Maa Durga,” Manali said. She went emotional while talking about her mother, whom she has lost. Manali added, “Every moment is a celebration of womanhood. The moment a girl steps out of her house, drives a cab, fly a plane or even simply take care of her family at her home, we celebrate womanhood. We don’t need a single day to celebrate their existence. They exist with their own essence and power,” the actress states. (Photo: Facebook)

Kuyasha is playing the lead in the show ‘Simana Periye’. The actress, who is quiet eloquent, added another perspective to it. She said, “When we discuss about Women’s Day in the presence of others, especially men, they question about the significance of the day? Does it mean the rest of the 364 days are for men? No! I see it in a different way.” She tried to explain her views with an example. “There must be some security threat and that’s why the soldiers are protecting us at the border risking their lives…right? Similarly, there must be reason due to which a day is needed to be celebrated. In a society, where women have been oppressed since ages, there should be a day to remind everyone that women exist and they exist with much power,” the actress opined.

The actor is presently playing the lead character in ‘Hriday Haran B.A Pass’, which is one of the male-centric shows of Bengali television. He said, “Since childhood we have been taught to treat women with due respect. Both my parents have stressed on the fact that women are more powerful and explained it to me and my brother. I have seen my mother taking part in decision making whether it is about our school, family matter or even a car. The same goes for my maasi, mami or even my boudi, they have always been treated with respect,” says the actor, who went emotional talking about his mother. He added, “Every year, me and my brother try to make our mom feel special on this day. Although I believe every day is Women’s Day having my mother in my life.” (Photo: Facebook)

The actress is playing a powerful character in ‘Jahaanara’, a show which voices against the issue of triple talaq. She has a strong message to share. “I personally think that it's time one should start treating us as an individual first. Stop identifying us as a mother, daughter or wife. We can surprise you. Start having a conversation with us about politics, sports and video games without judging our ability. Start appreciating beauty in a non-condescending way,” Sweta states. She further said, “Stop casual sexism. Stop ‘Maa-Behen ki gaali’ (swearing). Stop saying ladki ki tarah mat ro (Don't cry like a women). Your driving skills are too good for a woman and asking Isn't your dress too short? Happy 'just another' 8th March, guys!” (Photo: Facebook)

Roshni, who is playing the character of an acid attack victim, echoed with Sweta’s opinion. She said, “To me, it is not a special day. Maybe instead of telling a boy child things like ‘don’t run like a girl’ or ‘man up!’, teaching them to respect themselves and respect others, especially women would work better." (Photo: Facebook)

The actor, who has become a household mane with his shows like ‘Tomaye Amaye Mile’, is playing the lead in ‘Trinayani’. He said, “My mother plays a vital role in my life, be it my career or personal matters. She has showed me the significance of Women’s Day. To me, celebrating Women’s Day is celebrating the presence of my mother. And I would like to take the opportunity to wish all the women out there, a happy Women’s Day.” (Photo: Facebook)

Annwesha, who stunned the audience with her acting skills in the show ‘Briddhashram,’ believes in a gender-neutral society. She said, “I believe everyday is Women’s Day and Men’s Day. They co-exist and I believe in a gender-neutral society where both can celebrate their co-existence.” (Photo: Facebook)

Ritika is playing the lead character in ‘Sagarika’. She said, “My mother has always been the pillar of strength. I associate Women’s Day with the power I have seen in my mother!” (Photo: Facebook)