Ever since the Vogue Empower #MyChoice video hit the Internet, there’s been a lot of talk about it: while some people are praising the concept, others have been criticizing it for “male-bashing” and not targeting the real issues. By and large, though, the industry has come out in support of it, with many celebrities sharing the video on their own social media profiles. Kangana Ranaut and Sonakshi Sinha also reacted to the short film, saying that the initiative and efforts should be appreciated.
And recently, Mirror did an interview with Sonam Kapoor where they spoke to her about the video. Here’s what they’ve quoted her as saying:
Elitist women have always had wrong ideas about feminism. They think male-bashing… hating men…makes you a true feminist. I don’t have to make a video to voice my opinions. My actions have always spoken louder than my words. I’m proud to be a woman and I respect my independence. I’m never afraid to give my opinion on any matter. That’s what feminism is about.
However, Sonam clarifies that she has been quoted out of context:
Dear @homiadajania and @deepikapadukone #mumbaimirror has quoted me out of context in their article on page one.
— Sonam Kapoor (@sonamakapoor) April 4, 2015
Out of context or not, I do agree when Sonam says that male bashing and hating men doesn’t make someone a true feminist – quite the opposite, in fact, if you believe that feminism is all about equality. But something about her pointing fingers at “elitist women” doesn’t sit right with me, considering that we’re all very privileged here – and Sonam moreso. That doesn’t necessarily mean we all look at feminism as another form of male-bashing.
However, Sonam did say she was quoted out of context, so I’m inclined to believe that this wasn’t exactly the sentiment she was trying to put across. I would, though, like to know what she really thinks – directly from her – because conversations on matters like this can only help. And at the end of the day, whether you liked the My Choice video or not, you can’t deny that it has opened up avenues for more conversations on feminism in this country.