In a recent interview, Janhvi Kapoor, a prominent figure in mainstream Bollywood, surprised many with her willingness to delve into politically charged topics. Unlike many of her contemporaries known for their focus on entertainment, Kapoor showcased a keen interest in history and societal issues. During an interaction with The Lallantop, she expressed her desire to witness a hypothetical debate between two iconic figures in Indian history – Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Kapoor’s interest in history was evident when she was asked which historical period she would like to time-travel to. While she requested not to delve too deeply into her response, fearing potential backlash, she candidly expressed her fascination with the ideological differences between Gandhi and Ambedkar, particularly regarding casteism.
Rather surprised to see this from a mainstream Bollywood actor.
— Siddharth (@DearthOfSid) May 24, 2024
Janhvi Kapoor on Ambedkar, Gandhi & caste 👏
pic.twitter.com/KyH8Ad08f5
She remarked on Ambedkar’s steadfast stance on the issue, contrasting it with Gandhi’s evolving perspective as he encountered casteism firsthand. Kapoor highlighted the distinction between merely gathering information on casteism and experiencing its effects firsthand, implying that Gandhi’s understanding evolved as he witnessed its impact on society.
The interviewer was taken aback by Kapoor’s thoughtful insights and probed further, inquiring if conversations about caste took place during her schooling. Kapoor revealed that caste was never a topic of discussion at home or in her school environment, shedding light on her personal experiences with societal issues.
Kapoor’s candid discussion on casteism and her nuanced understanding of the subject garnered widespread attention on the internet. Social media users lauded her for delving into such a complex and politically charged topic with openness and maturity. Many expressed surprise at witnessing a mainstream Bollywood actor engage in discussions about social issues, applauding Kapoor for her thoughtfulness and depth of understanding.
However, not all reactions were positive. Some internet users questioned the significance of Kapoor’s remarks, suggesting that her observations were not particularly groundbreaking or intellectually stimulating. Others criticized her for merely mentioning famous names without adding substantial insight to the conversation.
Despite the mixed reactions, Kapoor’s willingness to engage in discussions about important societal issues marks a departure from the typical narrative seen in mainstream Bollywood. Her openness to exploring complex topics like casteism reflects a growing trend among Gen-Z celebrities who are increasingly using their platform to address pressing social issues.
Kapoor’s journey in Bollywood began with her debut in 2018’s “Dhadak,” a romantic drama that garnered mixed reviews, particularly for its handling of caste-related themes. Despite the criticism, Kapoor has continued to pursue diverse roles, showcasing her versatility as an actor. Her upcoming projects include “Mr & Mrs Mahi,” “Devara: Part 1,” “Ulajh,” “Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari,” and an upcoming film with Suriya.
In conclusion, Janhvi Kapoor’s recent interview highlights her willingness to engage in meaningful conversations about societal issues, challenging the stereotype of mainstream Bollywood actors as apolitical figures. While her remarks sparked debate and garnered both praise and criticism, they underscore the evolving role of celebrities in shaping public discourse and raising awareness about important social issues.
