'Chiraiya' actor Prasanna Bisht responds to 'anti-men' propaganda claims
What's the story
Prasanna Bisht, who plays the victim of marital rape in the recently released show Chiraiya, has responded to criticism that labels the show as "anti-men propaganda." The series, featuring Divya Dutta, has sparked discussions on consent and marital rape. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Bisht defended the show's message and urged critics to educate themselves.
Defense
'Show is about...explaining consent'
Bisht said, "(It's) high time that people start accepting this change." She added, "With time, nature changes, weather changes, so we need to change too. It is high time we start listening because it is not happening." "The show is all about explaining that a woman's body belongs to the woman and what the meaning of consent is; that's all. If you think that is propaganda, then it's extremely funny and sad."
Misleading statistics
'People today start putting their perspective out without...'
Bisht also addressed claims circulating online that the show states 82% of married Indian women face abuse. She called these claims false and said, "All the facts that people are saying, they should watch the show first before making any statements." "People today start putting their perspective out without seeing the actual thing. The show never claimed the percentage that they are talking about."
Personal insight
'I take pride in saying that I did it...'
Bisht added, "There are so many men out there in this world who don't even see the age of a girl when they harass them. So, why should I see my age when I want to speak against it?" "I take pride in saying that I did it as it was my responsibility." "I know that I'm an actor, but it was a responsibility because I have also experienced things in my life very early on."
Positive portrayal
Bisht questions why critics aren't talking about positive male characters
Bisht also questioned why critics are not acknowledging the positive male characters in the show. She said, "Why are people not talking about Vinay? I'm surprised. Why are people not talking about how he tackled the situation?" "Why are people not talking about how he supported his wife?" "They need to open their eyes, open their minds, open their hearts, so that they can understand basic human things." Chiraiya is now streaming on JioHotstar.