Bollywood Film “Mrs” Sparks Debate on Gender Roles
A new Bollywood film titled “Mrs” has ignited discussions about the persistent gender roles in Indian households, even among educated families. The film’s protagonist, married to a gynaecologist, finds herself ensnared in a cycle of unpaid domestic work, raising questions about women’s autonomy and societal expectations. While the movie has garnered both support and criticism, it aligns with recent data revealing that Indian women spend significantly more time on unpaid labor compared to men.
Film’s Impact on Gender Discourse
“Mrs,” a remake of the acclaimed Malayalam film “The Great Indian Kitchen,” has resonated with audiences by portraying the struggles of women in domestic settings. The protagonist’s experience reflects a broader societal issue where women’s aspirations are often overshadowed by the demands of household responsibilities. Critics, particularly from men’s rights groups, have voiced their discontent, accusing the film of promoting a negative narrative about traditional family structures. Despite the backlash, many viewers find the film’s themes relatable, highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality in India.
Recent government data underscores the film’s relevance. A survey indicates that Indian women dedicate over seven hours daily to unpaid domestic and caregiving tasks, significantly outpacing men’s contributions. Women spend an average of 289 minutes on domestic chores and 137 minutes on caregiving, while men allocate only 88 minutes and 75 minutes, respectively. This disparity persists despite government initiatives aimed at empowering women, suggesting that cultural norms continue to dictate gender roles within households.
Insights from the Time Use Survey
The findings from India’s Time Use Surveys (TUS) reveal critical insights into how men and women allocate their time. The latest survey, released recently, shows a slight decrease in the time women spend on unpaid domestic work, down by ten minutes. Additionally, women’s participation in paid employment has increased by over three percentage points. However, economists caution against interpreting these changes as a significant shift towards gender equality. The data indicates that women are still managing both paid employment and a heavier burden of unpaid work compared to their male counterparts.
Ashwini Deshpande, an economics professor at Ashoka University, emphasizes the importance of analyzing TUS data alongside the Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR). The FLFPR has risen from approximately 23% in 2017-2018 to 37% in 2022-2023, but this increase is attributed not only to more job opportunities but also to economic pressures. Deshpande notes that many women are compelled to work to support their families, resulting in a “double-shift” scenario where they juggle both paid and unpaid responsibilities.
Societal Reactions and Cultural Norms
The film “Mrs” has sparked a mix of admiration and criticism, particularly from men on social media. Some men’s rights activists argue that the film perpetuates a negative view of traditional family dynamics. Comedian Kajol Srinivasan points out that the film reflects uncomfortable truths about societal expectations. She shares a personal anecdote about her father, who took on household duties and quickly realized the challenges involved. His experience highlighted the power dynamics at play, where the breadwinner often holds the authority, regardless of the effort put into domestic work.
Srinivasan argues that women are socialized to accept a subordinate role, often celebrated for their sacrifices rather than their contributions. The ongoing disparity in domestic responsibilities, as shown by the TUS, indicates that societal change is gradual. Films like “Mrs” play a crucial role in initiating conversations about these issues, prompting audiences to reflect on the everyday realities of gender roles in their lives.
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