International Men’s Day: men need to be celebrated, says Pranitaa Pandit

Actress Pranitaa Pandit says that men need to be valued as much as women. She says that the way we celebrate International Women’s Day, we must celebrate International Men’s Day as well. “Honestly, I didn't know that Men's Day also existed. So now after knowing it, I feel that men do need to be celebrated. Awareness about Men's Day is less. The whole hype around Women's Day is because women are always not given equal opportunity and a lot of women have always fought for equality and their rights. That is why it is celebrated and there's a lot more recognition to that. Because men have an upper hand in other areas which is why this particular day has not been celebrated that much. They have always got their due. I feel that Women's Day is also hyped because earlier more importance was given to men in household or work. So, women wanted more equality and importance that is why it got hyped,” she says.
Men need to be more expressive, she says, “It is a very valid point, men don't express themselves much. Men must express themselves too. There are very few men in this world who are expressive. There's a difference, women are supposed to be soft and sensitive whereas men have those emotions but I think their masculine energy is very high. Hence, they are not as expressive as women. Now it is changing a lot and a lot of men are talking about it.”
She adds, “I feel human beings have a right to cry and men crying should be as normal as women crying. I think that the whole line of 'boys don't cry' doesn't make sense to the coming generation. I feel it doesn't make sense to us as well. The future generation is not going to stick to this line or will support it. Hence, I am sure men cry and these days both boys and girls are becoming more emotionally expressive. They are open about what they want and what they don't want.”

I am all for quality and consider it equally significant to the celebration of men, women or whoever inhabits our planet

Actor turned humanitarian Somy Ali speaks on International Men's Day. "Given I believe in equality for all, I consider it equally significant to the celebration of men, women or whoever inhabits our planet. I have said time and time again that I do not believe we need days to celebrate people or anything else for that matter unless it's a fight against injustice, but of course, I never seem to win that battle because the masses savor these man-made days. Therefore these days shall prevail and do their needful which is an economical boost like Valentine's Day or Mother's Day," she says.
It's being said that there is much hype around International Women's Day. But such is not the case with Men's Day.
"Well, that's obviously not equality and unfair to our male species and if we are going to be feminists or women's rights activists which I am, then I equally cherish and respect men deserving respect. And, I am not being facetious when I am saying this at all men deserve respect and significance to that equivalent of any other day we celebrate. But just like not all people are deserving of respect or acknowledgement similarly neither are all men. There are good and bad human beings universally, but then there are criminals or those who are completely devoid of a moral compass, be it a man or a woman," she explains.
Women express themselves and also talk about their emotions whereas men do not. Also, since ages we have been hearing that men don't cry.
"That's highly hypocritical of us as a society, however, I have been seeing progression with the younger generation though where men are openly expressing their feelings if they are emotionally hurt. I do hope to see our society eradicate that entire machismo mentality in its entirety otherwise it will only make it harder for men to express their real emotions. Again, it all begins with our parents and our upbringing. We are who we are, what we learn, and what we are taught as children because at that age we are highly influenced by what our parents say to us or teach us. Some of us grow up and are able to unlearn some awful things such as bigotry or homophobia while many don't. But getting back to the main point, men should be allowed equal freedom to express themselves as women. Or else we are living in a double standard world," she ends.

Charrul Malik: Men have started sharing their emotions and we must have empathy towards them

Actress Charrul Malik says that she would want to thank all the men in her life. She adds that she has always appreciated their courage and kindness. “I would like to thank all the men for being a positive influence in the world and for inspiring us to be better each day. I want to tell all of them that we celebrate all the men who have made a difference in our lives. Your strength, courage, and kindness are greatly appreciated. The beauty of all men is that each has a special quality, and it is incredible when you discover their true heart Happy International Men's Day. I have written something to thank all the men in our lives,” she says.
She adds, “Women's Day is hyped. I feel that women take extra footage everywhere. I feel men should be appreciated too. Being a woman, I feel we are overhyped and men deserve that too. There should be equality and men should be celebrated too. Men too have all the right to be appreciated and acknowledged. We are human beings and we all put in some effort so there should not be any difference between us. All should be recognized and appreciated for their work.”
She says that things are changing now and men are also becoming expressive. “It is not like that, men have started expressing themselves too. People listen more to women with more empathy. But I feel that men and women both are equal so we should be treated equally. Men have started sharing their emotions and we must have empathy towards them too,” she says.
She mentions, "Men do cry. In today's era, even shows are unafraid to depict a man crying or expressing his emotions. Men are embracing their emotions, reflecting on themselves, and vocally expressing their sentiments. I've witnessed men stepping out of their comfort zones, shattering societal stereotypes. That era has passed, and men are now openly exhibiting their feelings, reflecting their true emotions. I don't think they are confined to themselves anymore."

Sharleen Dutt:men don't cry is a harmful stereotype that overlooks the emotional depth and vulnerability inherent in every individual

November 19 is celebrated as International Men's Day. The day is significant in raising awareness around men's health, throws light on their contributions and accomplishments, and also encourages them to set the right example for society. Sherleen Dutt, who has been a part of shows such as AFL (Anything For Love), KINK (Kiss Ishq N Konnections) and Honey Trap Squad on Alt Balaji, speaks on International Men's Day.“International Men's Day provides an important platform to recognize and celebrate the positive contributions of men while addressing vital issues related to their health, well-being, and gender equality. While Women's Day receives considerable attention, it's crucial to highlight and appreciate the unique challenges and strengths of men as well,” she says. 
Women express themselves and also talk about their emotions whereas men do not. Also, since ages we have been hearing that men don’t cry.  “Societal norms often dictate that men should not express their emotions openly, contributing to the misconception that they don't share their feelings. However, it's essential to dispel this stereotype. Men, like women, experience a wide range of emotions and encouraging them to express themselves fosters healthier relationships and a more empathetic society,” she continues, “The long-standing notion that ‘men don't cry’ is a harmful stereotype that overlooks the emotional depth and vulnerability inherent in every individual. Men can and should express their emotions, including crying, without diminishing their strength or masculinity. It's vital to recognise that men, like my brothers, have emotions and responsibilities, and acknowledging their feelings contributes to a more compassionate understanding of masculinity. Men's roles encompass various responsibilities, including family care, and breaking free from outdated stereotypes allows for a more inclusive and supportive society.”

Ekta Saraiya on body shaming:I have witnessed this happen to others around me

Body Shaming is a reality. Not only the female gender, but their male counterparts also have to deal with it. Sad that even in today's day and age people are being judged for the wrong reason and that is affecting their mental health. Kyunki... Saas Maa Bahu Beti Hoti Hai actress Ekta Saraiya speaks on the issue.
"I think this is one subject that I’m glad people have finally started opening up about. Apart from the obvious social media trolling, one also needs to be aware of the body shaming that could happen in the garb of ‘concern’ from your close ones too. No unsolicited advice should be given or taken from anyone about one’s body or personal choices. No matter how well-intentioned or close-knit you are, certain boundaries should always be respected. And it’s our duty towards ourselves and society to make our boundaries clear and not indulge in or entertain such loose talks," she says.
Ekta shares that we have all been at the receiving end of it at some point in life. "Thankfully now more and more people are coming out in the open to address this as opposed to earlier times when this wasn’t even considered an issue," she continues, "Fortunately, I haven’t experienced it personally so much but I have witnessed this happen to others around me. I always make sure to stand by and empower people who are going through this and never allow this in my vicinity."
In all professional sectors including the entertainment industry people react in a similar pattern. Agreeing, the actor says, "This happens everywhere. It’s just that it’s more obvious in the entertainment industry and social media. When it comes to social media, I feel all these platforms should not have a comment section at all. This will put an end to a big chunk of toxicity."