4 Bollywood actresses who claim they're not feminists

These actresses are further strengthening the taboo associated with the F-word

We have recently seen many Bollywood stars address strong issues that women face in their day-to-day lives, especially in countries like Pakistan and India.

Deepika Padukone, Kangana Ranaut, and Ranveer Singh are all proud feminists. However, there are still some stars who are undermining the concept of feminism.

PHOTO: TUMBLR



Feminism is not hatred for men, it is simply the idea of equality -- not just in opportunities, but also in freedoms and perceptions of society. These actresses believe in equality, but still shun the word 'feminist' like its something disgusting -- further strengthening the taboo associated with the term. Such contradiction.



Here are four such actresses who ascribe to feminist values, but claim that they are not feminists:

1. Priyanka Chopra

It was shocking to see Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra say she does not identify herself as a feminist. The former Miss World recently made her Hollywood debut with a strong female character in Quantico and has done some commendable roles such as that in Mary Kom.



However, talking about Quantico in an interview with Refinery 29, she said, "I don’t think it’s feminist, but it’s empowerment. It’s got very strong female characters, and I don’t think it’s a bra-burning feminist show where you’re like, we hate men, but we have really strong male characters, too. It gives females an opportunity to be equal with the boys, and I think that’s really progressive."

PHOTO: TUMBLR

Err, that is what feminism is, Priyanka. Maybe google it first?



2. Katrina Kaif

Katrina is known for standing up for her individuality and speaking out against people referring to her as Ranbir Kapoor's girlfriend. However, even she said she is not a feminist.



"People say I am not open, but is being open only talking about your relationships? I don’t think I am feminist but I don’t think an actress should be made to speak about the men in her life when there is so much more to her and what she has achieved. We need to respect that," she said in an interview with Vogue.

Yes Katrina, we need to respect that. Just like we need to respect the feminist movement that you seem to believe in.

3. Parineeti Chopra

The actress is known for being blunt about women's issues that most girls in India are still embarrassed to confront. Like the time she schooled a male journalist about menstruation.



Parineeti is also an ambassador for Beti Bachao Beti Parhao campaign in Haryana. However, earlier this month Indian Express quoted her saying, "I do want to be a role model but not a feminist."

"I am very often confused to be a feminist but I am not. I am really not. I do feel proud of my gender, of being a woman. I do speak against gender inequality. I want girls to be treated the way men are. Somewhere we lack that in our country," she added.

What is wrong with being a feminist role model, though?



4. Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit is from the time when actresses would quit their film careers after getting married, like Karisma Kapoor did. However, she broke those norms and returned to the big screen and appeared in films like the women-centric Gulab Gang. 

PHOTO: REBLOGGY.COM

Much to our disappointment though, Madhuri said, "I don't think I'm a feminist. I am independent and strong, which is what women should be like."

Madhuri, hate to break it to you, but you are a feminist. Embrace it.

PHOTO: TUMBLR