Recently on the popular Indian game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Season 16, hosted by Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, a moment of intense discussion unfolded when a contestant expressed a deeply ingrained social prejudice. The contestant, a young man who was struggling with unemployment, remarked that unmarried women are often viewed as a “burden” on their families. This statement sparked a profound reaction from Bachchan, who took the opportunity to address the contestant and the wider audience on the problematic nature of such beliefs. During the show, the contestant, who shared his own struggles with joblessness and societal pressures, made a comment reflecting a common stereotype prevalent in many parts of India. He stated that just as unmarried women are seen as burdens, unemployed men face similar societal disdain. (If I say that unmarried girls are considered burdens by their families, similarly, unemployed boys are seen as burdens after a certain age). Amitabh Bachchan, known not only for his acting prowess but also for his strong voice on social issues, immediately countered the contestant’s view. With a firm yet compassionate tone, he said, “Ek baat batye aapko. Ladki joh hai bojh kabhi nai ban sakti. A girl can never be a burden. A woman is a great honor). His response was met with applause from the audience, underlining the collective agreement with his stance and the impact of his words on viewers. The remark made by the contestant highlighted a deeply rooted issue in Indian society, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, where daughters are often seen as liabilities due to cultural expectations surrounding dowries and marriage. In many households, daughters are expected to be married off early, and their education and professional aspirations are often deprioritized. This mindset not only limits opportunities for women but also perpetuates gender inequality.
Bachchan’s reaction on KBC is reflective of the broader cultural shift that is gradually taking place in India, where voices from various sectors—including media, education, and entertainment—are increasingly advocating for gender equality and challenging outdated social norms. His comments resonate especially as he is not just a celebrity, but also a father who has always emphasized equality between his son, Abhishek Bachchan, and daughter, Shweta Bachchan. Amitabh Bachchan has been the face of Kaun Banega Crorepati for decades, and his influence extends beyond his role as a quizmaster. Throughout the years, he has used the platform to highlight important social issues, whether it’s gender bias, education, or the importance of treating everyone with respect. In this particular instance, his words served as a direct challenge to traditional mindsets, and his status as a revered public figure added weight to the conversation. His response not only offered a corrective to the contestant’s views but also served as an educational moment for millions of viewers across the country. By addressing such topics on a widely viewed show like KBC, Bachchan continues to use his influence to promote progressive values and inspire change. The importance of public figures like Amitabh Bachchan addressing social issues cannot be understated. In India, celebrities wield significant influence, and their actions and words often serve as guiding principles for their fans. When Bachchan, with his immense following, makes a statement against the concept of women being burdens, it sends a strong message that such views are outdated and unacceptable. Furthermore, KBC’s reach across diverse demographics means that conversations initiated on the show can ripple through different sections of society. For many viewers, particularly in rural areas, Bachchan’s stance serves as a powerful counter-narrative to traditional beliefs. It reinforces the idea that women are not just equal but integral to the fabric of society. The incident on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16 serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that persist in changing societal attitudes toward women. While progress has been made, moments like these underscore the ongoing need to educate and challenge regressive views. Amitabh Bachchan’s intervention is a powerful example of how public platforms can be leveraged to promote positive social change. As India continues to evolve, the role of media and influential personalities in shaping public discourse remains crucial. Amitabh Bachchan’s stand against the notion of women as burdens reflects a larger movement toward recognizing the inherent dignity and value of every individual, regardless of gender. His message is clear: women are not burdens; they are to be celebrated and respected.
