Between series like Balika Vadhu and Na Aana Iss Des Mere Ladoo, yet another offering comes in the form of Faltu. Star Plus’ new show aims to tell a story about a girl called “Faltu” after her parents get tired of trying for a boy. But ‘Faltu’ dares to break stereotypes and has a natural talent for cricket. She dreams of becoming a cricketer and making a mark in the male-dominated world of Indian sport. On International Girl’s Day, the show’s lead actress Niharika Chouksey talks about how the show was inspired by the real life of women in Rajasthan and reveals the small but significant gender biases she’s faced in her life in this exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama.
EXCLUSIVE: On International Girl Child Day, actress Niharika Chouksey talks about the plight of women in Rajasthan; says: “We ran into a 15-year-old who is a mother”
In an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Niharika Chouksey revealed details about the plight of women in Rajasthan and also spoke about the reality of child marriage. “Faltu is actually inspired by the situation in Rajasthan. Women are actually called weird just in an effort to have a baby boy next time. While we were shooting for a promo, we ran into a little girl and her mother was only 15 years old. Her name was also very strange and sir gave that as an example for us. I asked if she wanted to study and her answer was ‘If I had the chance, I would have done it’.
She added: “Child marriages still exist and they don’t even get the chance to learn. They are not allowed to pursue a career because it is about getting them married. That’s why we make these shows. To shed some light on topics no one wants to talk about.”
While Niharika has not experienced major discrimination in her life, she revealed how minor prejudices can also be a nuisance. “My parents have supported me and have never discriminated against me at home. But when I played sports in school, our professors often wouldn’t let us compete with the boys because they would: “We’re not physically strong as they are.” It may be true at some point. I’m not denying that, but to say that often feels a bit humiliating. Other things in everyday life, like my father objecting to me going out late at night, which is absolutely allowed for my brother because he is a man, is also unfair. Although, I feel like things have improved over time, but we still have a long way to go.”
On International Girl Child Day, Niharika pledged equality and spoke out about the kind of equality she would like to witness in the real world. “First of all, women should not have a curfew and should be able to walk around at any time of the night. Secondly, women should be given the same opportunities when it comes to sports. For example, I couldn’t take cricket because I didn’t have that option at all. There should also be equality in jobs, regardless of gender. Whether it’s a boy or a girl, it doesn’t matter. It’s about their ability, not their gender,” she concluded.
Read also: NEW PROMO: Star Plus launches new show Faltu starring Niharika Chouksey and it’s all about inspiring women to dream bigger
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