Kajal Aggarwal Critiques Double Standards for Female Actors in Intimate Scenes

Actor Kajal Aggarwal has spoken out about the criticism female actors often face for performing intimate scenes on screen, particularly after marriage, while their male counterparts are rarely subjected to similar scrutiny. Her comments come amid backlash directed at Kiara Advani for her steamy sequences in the newly released music video "Tabaahi" from the upcoming film Toxic, which also stars Yash. Despite both actors being featured in the scenes, much of the criticism has targeted Advani.

‘It’s a Personal Choice,’ Says Kajal

In an interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Aggarwal emphasized that performing such scenes is a personal decision. “A man should use his brain and make a choice if he wants to do it or not. It should come from inside,” she said, adding that women are often more cautious about such roles. Speaking about her own career, Aggarwal revealed that she has consistently avoided roles involving on-screen intimacy or attire she finds uncomfortable, such as bikinis. “I have rejected many big films because of this reason. But I am okay to give it up. That is my personal boundary, and I don’t want to cross it,” she explained.

Motherhood Shapes Her Choices

Aggarwal, who is married to entrepreneur Gautam Kitchlu and has a four-year-old son, Neil, shared how motherhood has influenced her professional decisions. She said she now carefully selects roles to ensure her son will feel proud of her work when he grows up. “I don’t want him to squint or feel uncomfortable or think, ‘Why did my mother do this?’” she stated. Her focus remains on choosing projects that align with her values and personal boundaries.

Broader Debate on Gendered Criticism

The controversy surrounding Toxic has reignited discussions on the double standards female actors face in the entertainment industry. Actor Benedict Garrett, who also stars in the film, criticized the backlash against Kiara Advani, pointing out the stark difference in how audiences react to male and female actors in similar roles. “Yash is also married, and he also has children. So why is only the woman getting the abuse, while the man apparently gets the applause?” Garrett questioned in a social media post. He reminded critics that actors are simply doing their job—portraying characters and telling stories.

Upcoming Projects

On the professional front, Kajal Aggarwal is set to star in The India Story, alongside Shreyas Talpade. The film is slated for release on July 24.

Aggarwal’s comments highlight the ongoing challenges faced by female actors in navigating societal expectations and professional choices, reigniting a conversation about gender equality in the entertainment industry.

Source: Indian Express