Kritika Kamra on Feminism: ‘It Doesn’t Work Sitting in a Comfort Chair’

Kritika Kamra on Feminism: Kritika’s first stint in television was with Yahan Ke Hum hai Sikandar, Kitni Mohabbat Hai, Pyar Ka Bandhan, Kuch To Log Kahenge, Reporters, Prem Ya Paheli, Chandrakanta. She made her film debut with Mitraon and has done web series like Tandav, Koun Banegi Shikharwati, Hash Hash, Mumbai Meri Jaan, and Gyarah Gyarah. She has done reality shows like Jara Nachke Dikha 2 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7. Her next is Matka King. Kritika loves talking about feminism.

Here’s what Kritika Kamra has to say on Feminism

Kritika, these days everyone talks about feminism. You too wrote something about it some time back, so clearly you have something to say about it.

Yes, I do. Feminism... it's not just a word; you know that, right? It's not like you post something online and then you never think about it again. It's a lot more than that.

So what is it? Most people think it's just about women's rights and a few other things.

Hmmm! Exactly! But it's not enough to 'talk' about women's rights, you have to ‘do’ something about it. Otherwise, what's the use of saying "I am a feminist" if you don't 'do' anything? In our industry there are so many people who talk about feminism, but where's the action? Feminism isn't just about posting on social media; it's about action in the real world.

What were you saying about actively promoting gender equality and empowering women by your actions?

First and foremost, make sure feminism is not an issue to be discussed sitting in a comfortable chair. We have to do something. It’s not enough to share a post with a hashtag and call yourself a feminist. We must make the right choices in our mission, speak up for the right things, and create spaces for women to flourish. This is our pledge to work for gender equality and empower women through actions and not just awareness. It’s about building a foundation and igniting change.

How do we begin?

If you have resources, if you have a platform, do something. Take initiatives and actually make a difference to women's empowerment. That's real feminism: a lifetime commitment to equality, not a passing fad

So you're saying that it's quite different from just noticing what you're doing all the time?

Yes yes. It’s the small things which mostly count. For example, if you see something wrong happening to a woman, speak up. If you have a platform, use it to help other women. This makes a space where women can truly thrive and succeed. You can’t promote feminism from a comfort zone, you need to do the things that you preach. Just sharing a post with and calling yourself a feminist isn’t enough. We need to do the right things on a consistent basis in our roles, speak up for the right things, and create spaces where women succeed.

Do you think it’s doing enough?

Not really, no. Lots of conversations going on, but... Think about it, millions of posts online. But real change? It takes grit and consistency.

So what do people do? What does someone who wants to be a feminist do?

But you can start small. Look around you. Are there women you can help? Can you help create more respect for women? By giving advice, or speaking up when people behave inappropriately. If you have the means, create something. Start an initiative. Do something.

So it's a long-term effort, not just a trend?

Exactly! And it's not a trend, it's a responsibility. You can't just walk away from this. This is something that you have to stick with. These are really important things to talk about. We all have to do something.

You talk about the industry and personal efforts but what about the average person? Someone who isn't in the film industry and might not have a large platform? What can they do?

That’s a great question! Feminism isn’t just for celebrities and people in power. Anyone can do it, even if it’s just small things.
If you see a woman being treated badly at work, on the street, or even in your own family, speak up loudly and clearly. Don’t be afraid to say what you feel; that’s a big step.

Yes, but sometimes that can be difficult.

I know it’s scary but even the smallest voice can inspire change. Give other women a hug when they speak up don’t leave them hanging. Solidarity is key

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And what else?

Study feminism and the issues. Lots of information is available. The more you know, the better able you will be to make a difference. Talk to other women. Share what you’ve been through. You can learn from each other. Men also need to educate themselves. They need to listen to women, support women and confront inappropriate behavior in men. Equality advocacy isn’t just for women; it’s for all of us.

Don’t wait for the right time. Don’t think you have to do something huge, small things make a difference, too. Just start somewhere. And keep learning, keep growing, keep fighting for equality. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

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