Monika Khanna on International Men's Day: Men too deserve a platform so that they can express themselves

November 19 is celebrated as International Men's Day. The day is significant in raising awareness around men's health, throws light on their contribution and accomplishments, and also encourages them to set the right example for society. Ikk Kudi Punjab Di actor Monika Khanna speaks on International Men's Day.

“It is a very special and crucial day because, on International Men's Day, we celebrate the presence of men in our lives. A woman can express their pain and sorrows but men are not taught how to express themselves. They are told to fight their emotional battles on their own. They are not so vocal about how they feel and ask for any help. But in today's time, keeping in mind the concept of gender equality, I think that men should feel safe and comfortable enough to discuss their viewpoints. They should get a platform just like we women have. It would be great if they also get that environment to discuss their emotions, failures and mental health issues. Men too deserve a platform so that they can express themselves. I respect those men who are not afraid to show their feminine side. I know it takes a lot for a man to be able to bring that side in front of the world. From the bottom of my heart, I respect their masculinity and how they are as a person. Men must have all the facilities that women enjoy,” 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.

“Yes, women's day is quite hyped, because women's condition earlier was very poor. So to empower them, all these things were brought into consideration. But it is not like that. Today we also celebrate men's day just like we celebrate women's day. Earlier there was nothing to celebrate the existence of a woman, so it was hyped in a certain way. But today I feel that men are given equal importance. I really want to thank all the men in my life. Whether they are from my family, my friends, my mentor or guru, a philosopher or any man who has played a crucial role in my life. I thank you all for taking care of me. I feel that they are those people around whom you feel that you are completely safe. I wish men could also feel safe around us. In today's era, we celebrate the men in our lives just like we do for women,” she adds.

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.

Agreeing, she says, “As I mentioned earlier things have been changing. Men can also cry, they can also express themselves. We are here to help them out. Due to gender equality, we as women also face the same stress just like men faced earlier when we were not allowed to work outside. Just like we are respected as women, I want to respect all the males in my life. Thank you for taking care of me and making me feel safe around you. I thank all my friends, gurus and mentors for making me stand where I am.”