Shehnaaz Gill, a popular Indian actress, recently recalled a humorous incident from her school days during a conversation with fellow actor Rakul Preet Singh. The two discussed the importance of normalizing sex education, a topic central to Gill’s recently released film, Chhatriwali.
Gill, who was a guest on the fourth episode of the show Desi Vibes with Shehnaaz Gill, shared a story about a time in her science class when the subject of reproduction was being discussed. She said, “I used to enjoy a lot in class. It was the only subject in Science which I liked. So, each time the chapter (of reproduction) came up, I would be all ears. One day, while the teacher was teaching, I asked ‘Ma’am can we do practical?’. But Ma’am said, ‘Shut up!’”
Gill’s comment was met with laughter from both herself and Preet, but it also highlighted the taboo and stigma associated with sex education in India. Preet, who was making an appearance on the show to promote her new film, which premiered on Zee 5, agreed with Gill’s sentiment and stressed the importance of having healthy conversations about sex education. She said, “Had your teacher told you ‘this is for your knowledge’ rather than snubbing and saying ‘shut up’ [we wouldn’t be having this conversation],” she said. “I think society would change when teachers’ approach towards the subject and how it’s addressed at home changes.”
The conversation also touched on the topic of abortions and the stigma that surrounds it in India. Preet stated, “As a society, we need to change how we approach abortion. It’s a woman’s right to choose what she wants to do with her body, and it’s not something that should be shamed or stigmatized.”
Gill also joked about how Preet was giving off the vibe of a teacher, which is the role she plays in Chhatriwali. The movie, which premiered on Friday, is the first Hindi film to star Preet as a solo lead. Appearing alongside her is actor Sumeet Vyas.
In conclusion, the conversation between Gill and Preet highlighted the importance of normalizing sex education and having open and healthy conversations about the subject. It also touched upon the stigma surrounding abortions and the need for society to change the way it approaches this topic.