Twinkle Khanna, the multi-talented actor-turned-author widely known by her pen name Mrs Funnybones, recently shared her thoughts on ghost sightings and the critical social commentary embedded within the blockbuster film Stree 2. In her latest column for The Times of India, titled Why Ghosts Don’t Scare the Indian Stree, Twinkle explored the complex and often frightening reality that women in India face daily. Her reflections stemmed from the themes of Stree 2, a film that cleverly subverts traditional horror tropes to highlight the pervasive fear that women experience in society. Also Read- Stree 2: Karan Johar Analyzes the Success of Shraddha Kapoor’s Film, Calling It a Celebration of Hindi Cinema! Read Now to Know More
Twinkle began her column by recounting a childhood memory involving one of the “apocryphal tales” passed down through her family. This particular story centered around her great-aunt, who was believed to have been possessed by an evil spirit. The anecdote served as a launching point for a broader discussion about fear—both supernatural and real—and how it affects the women of India.
She argued that, ironically, the fictional horrors depicted in movies often seem less terrifying than the real-life dangers that women encounter daily. Twinkle cited several harrowing incidents that underscore the severity of these dangers, such as the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata and the sexual abuse of two four-year-old girls in a school in Badlapur. These cases, she suggested, are far more unsettling than any ghost story, as they reflect the very real and persistent threats women face.
Twinkle’s column delved into the societal norms that continue to dictate how women should navigate their lives. She pointed out that despite the passage of time, little has changed in terms of the advice given to young girls. “Fifty years on this planet,” she wrote, “and I find that we are still teaching our daughters the same things that I was taught as a child. Don’t go alone. To the park, to school, to work. Don’t go alone with any man, even if it’s your uncle, cousin, or friend. Don’t go alone in the morning or evening, and especially not at night. Don’t go alone because it’s not a matter of if, but when. Don’t go alone because you may never come back.”
Through this powerful reflection, Twinkle emphasized the harsh reality that women are often forced to live in fear, constantly vigilant about their surroundings. She argued that instead of placing the burden on women to protect themselves, society should focus on enforcing laws and implementing safety measures that ensure public spaces are secure for everyone. Until such changes are made, Twinkle wryly concluded, “I suppose it is safer for the strees (women) of this country to encounter a ghost in a dark alley than a man.”
Twinkle also praised Stree 2 for using the horror genre as a vehicle to convey a significant social message. The film, she noted, flips the script on traditional horror narratives by creating a world where women are empowered and men are the ones living in fear. In the first installment of what has now become a celebrated horror franchise, the supernatural figure known as Stree preys exclusively on men who dare to wander the streets after dark. This role reversal, according to Twinkle, offers a stark contrast to the types of cautionary tales her grandmother used to tell her and her sister, Rinkie Khanna, to keep them from wandering off to the nearby Juhu beach when they were children.
Stree 2, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, has proven to be one of the most successful Hindi films of recent years. Since its release on Independence Day 2024, the movie has grossed over ₹450 crore worldwide, solidifying its place as a major cinematic event. Beyond its box office success, the film’s clever blend of horror and social commentary has resonated with audiences, making it more than just an entertaining experience but also a thought-provoking one.
Reflecting on her own career, Twinkle Khanna has successfully transitioned from a Bollywood actor to a best-selling author. After starring in a series of films during the late 1990s and early 2000s, including Barsaat (1995), which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut, as well as popular titles like Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai (1998), Baadshah (1999), and Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega (2001), Twinkle decided to step away from acting. She found her true calling in writing, where she could express her thoughts on a wide range of topics, often with a humorous and insightful perspective. Also Read- Khel Khel Mein: Akshay Kumar And Fardeen Khan’s Movie Got A Pivotal Scene On Sexually Censored By UAE; Here’s Director Mudassar Aziz’s Reaction
In 2015, Twinkle published her first book, Mrs Funnybones, a non-fiction work that quickly became a bestseller. She followed it up with The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad in 2016, a collection of short stories that further showcased her talent for storytelling. Her third book, Pyjamas Are Forgiving (2018), was a novel that received critical acclaim, and her most recent work, Welcome to Paradise, released in 2023, continues to solidify her reputation as a formidable author.
Twinkle Khanna’s ability to blend humor with social commentary, both in her writing and in her public statements, has made her a unique and influential voice. Through her latest column and her reflections on films like Stree 2, she continues to challenge societal norms and advocate for a safer, more just world for women.
