Tanishaa Mukerji Says India Is ‘The Most Feminist Country In The World’, Criticises Western Feminism

Actor and Bigg Boss 7 runner-up Tanishaa Mukerji recently spoke about feminism in an interview with Hauterrfly. She expressed her belief that feminism is an American term.

Tanishaa Mukerji recently spoke about feminism in an interview.

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Actor and Bigg Boss 7 runner-up Tanishaa Mukerji recently spoke about feminism in an interview with Hauterrfly. She expressed her belief that feminism is an American term and that the Western interpretation of the concept does not align with India's cultural values.

Tanishaa on Feminism

Sharing her perspective, Tanishaa said she does not resonate with the term “feminism.” She elaborated, "This word has come from America, which is the most non-feminist country. I am sorry, but what kind of country is it where women are not allowed to have abortions in certain states? A woman has not become president. For years, women were not allowed to vote, and you think you have freedom there? India is the most feminist country in the world."

She contrasted this with India’s long-standing reverence for women, emphasising that Indian culture inherently respects and empowers women. According to her, "Yes, we have issues, but it's not because women don’t have respect in our culture. There is respect for women in Hinduism, it is ingrained in both men and women, but because of the British, our culture has deteriorated. And because of overpopulation, our society has deteriorated."

She further continued, "Crime is a result of overpopulation, not a result of culture. Lord Krishna never disrespected Radha, Lord Shiva has never disrespected Mata Parvati. So it's not there in our culture. We are a very free, very strong women’s country."

On Gender Roles and Bollywood’s Portrayal of Feminism

Tanishaa also reflected on traditional gender roles in Indian society, pointing out that men in earlier times would often entrust their entire earnings to their mothers or wives—a practice that, according to her, still continues in many households.

She further voiced her concerns regarding how feminism is depicted in modern Bollywood films, stating that the concept is often oversimplified. She criticised the industry’s tendency to define feminism merely by portraying women as working professionals, suggesting that a woman's strength should not be confined to such a narrow definition.

Mixed Reactions to Tanishaa’s Comments

Following the release of her interview clip, social media reactions were divided. Many users praised her views, with comments like, "Perfect... This is what wisdom looks like," and "Finally, a sensible woman." Another supporter wrote, "Absolutely correct."

However, not everyone agreed with her stance. Some critics questioned her understanding of feminism, with one remarking, "Someone asked her to define and spell feminist!"

Another user commented, "Talking about the country and telling us about religion—there is a difference between the two. Practically, the literal meaning of Hinduism is not being practised."

Tanishaa Mukerji’s Career

Daughter of veteran actress Tanuja and sister of Bollywood star Kajol, Tanishaa made her Bollywood debut in Sssshhh alongside Karan Nath and Dino Morea. However, the film failed at the box office. She later appeared in movies such as Popcorn Khao Mast Ho Jao, Neal ‘N’ Nikki, Sarkar, Tango Charlie, and Sarkar Raj but struggled to establish herself as a leading actress.

She gained widespread recognition through her participation in Bigg Boss 7, finishing as the first runner-up to Gauahar Khan. She later took part in reality shows like Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 7 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11.