Jaipur: In today’s world, it is crucial to openly discuss intimacy and social constructs like women’s “shame.” Society has remained silent on these topics for a long time, even though discussions on them have become even more necessary in these changing times. This was stated by author Shobhaa De, who attended the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026.
She said that amidst the increasing influence of technology, the younger generation is drifting away from understanding the true meaning of relationships, self-respect, and their own bodies and emotions. Girls, in particular, are taught from childhood to feel shame about their bodies and desires. Words like “shame” are ingrained in innocent minds, causing girls to suppress their thoughts and feelings. She herself is a Hindu woman and believes in the concept of Ardhanarishvara (the half-male, half-female deity). Both feminine and masculine energies are essential in the world.
Concern over atrocities against women in Iran: Shobhaa De clearly stated that this is not just a problem in India, but women worldwide have to struggle to make their voices heard. Society still feels uncomfortable with women’s independent thinking and their habit of speaking openly. Expressing concern over the atrocities against women in Iran, she said that human rights should not be ignored in the name of global politics. What is happening to innocent women is extremely shameful, and the world should not remain silent on this.
Change has come, but the fight continues: Shobhaa De disagreed with the notion that there has been no change in the status of women in the last 50 years. She said that the biggest change is that today women are expressing themselves more openly than ever before. Social media has given a platform to women from small towns and villages as well. She called education the strongest foundation for women’s empowerment, but also acknowledged that many families still limit their daughters to marriage and domestic life after educating them. She said that today, women in India are excelling in fields like the army, air force, commercial aviation, administration, and the corporate sector. It shouldn’t be surprising anymore to find out that the pilot on a plane is a woman; it’s become commonplace. Laws exist, but awareness and economic independence are crucial: Shobhaa De said that while laws exist to protect women’s rights, a lack of awareness and economic independence at the grassroots level is a major problem. Until a woman is economically independent, she won’t have the courage to fight for her rights legally.
Work in Bollywood is based on talent: Responding to a statement by musician A.R. Rahman, she said she doesn’t agree with any negative perception regarding communalism in Bollywood. Work in Bollywood is given based on talent. Finally, she said that she has high hopes for the next generation. Women possess tremendous resilience and capability. This should be seen as a strength, not a weakness, and they should move forward accordingly.
