'Look the problem directly in the eyes'

Aishwarya Rai's take on street harassment

Actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has addressed the pervasive issue of street harassment, urging individuals to confront it with confidence and strength. On Monday, the global icon shared a thought-provoking video on Instagram as part of L'Oréal Paris' campaign against street harassment, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

In the video, Aishwarya delivered a powerful message: "Street harassment. How do you deal with it? Avoid eye contact? No. Look the problem directly in the eyes. Hold your head high. Feminine and feminist. My body, my worth. Never compromise your worth. Do not doubt yourself. Stand up for your worth. Don't blame your dress or your lipstick. Street harassment is never your fault."

Her post was accompanied by a call to action in the caption. "On this International Day for the elimination of violence against women, join L'Oréal Paris' Stand Up against street harassment training program. We're all worth it." along with the hashtag #WeStandUp.

The post garnered widespread support, with fans and followers praising the Devdas actor's stand on the issue. One fan commented, "Wow, Aishwarya, you are the most inspirational and powerful woman," while another described her as "the icon of Beauty with Brain." Others expressed gratitude for her advocacy, with one follower writing, "Thank you, queen, we needed this," and another adding, "Well said. Proud of you fighting for a cause which has been of grave concern for women and society."

While Aishwarya continues to champion significant causes on a global stage, she remains deeply rooted in her personal life. Her husband, actor Abhishek Bachchan, recently opened up about her pivotal role in their family dynamic. In an interview with The Hindu, Abhishek expressed gratitude for Aishwarya's sacrifices as a mother, particularly her efforts in creating stability for their daughter, Aaradhya.

"Even in my household, I'm very lucky I get to go out and make the movies," Abhishek said. "But I know that Aishwarya is at home with Aaradhya, and I thank her immensely for that. But I don't think the children think of it that way. They don't look upon you in third person. They look upon you in the first – you're the parent, the father or the mother."

These remarks come amidst swirling rumours of an imminent divorce that the couple have not yet addressed publicly.