The most exquisite example of God’s artistry is said to be a woman. She is a daughter, a sister, a wife and a mother. However, in our nation, on one hand a goddess is worshipped, but on the other hand her ordinary womanly self is banished from the temple. Throughout her menstrual cycle, this occurs each month.
Yes, Menstruation is still stigmatized in many parts of India, despite the fact that it is a developing nation. When a girl asks a shopkeeper for sanitary napkins, he offers it to her in a black wrapped sheet as if she were purchasing something illicit. Girls are forbidden from stepping into temples or even kitchens while they are menstruating. Menstruation cannot be publicly mentioned. It is an embarrassment and a taboo. Santosh Upadhyay, the director of “Masoom Sawaal,” has introduced a fresh and original narrative with the intent of breaking this taboo. The movie features Ekavali Khanna, Shishir Sharma, Shashie Verma, Rohit Tiwari, Brinda Trivedi and child artist Nitanshi Goyal.
Controversy On Movie’s Poster
On August 5, the movie was released in theatres. But the movie’s poster courted controversy before the film could make any statement about defying taboos. Lord Krishna being depicted on a sanitary pad is what has sparked this uproar. Although it is only a poster, there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with it given that the movie strives to breach social taboos. However, a lot of individuals find it intolerable and have stirred up controversy on social media.
Actress Ekavali Khanna responded to the controversy by saying that she was unaware of any opposition the poster has received. She said, “If that’s the case, though, I can affirm that the creators had no desire to offend anyone. Its main objective was to shatter the taboo and alter the narrative. Superstitions and bad customs that are forcibly forced on women without justification have no place in society today.” Santosh Upadhyay, the director, also commented on the conflict. “Our perspective of observing things is sometimes wrong, which results in misconception,” he stated.
Ekavali Khanna who with her diverse cast of characters, including Saeeda and Paromita, has won over audiences. She has worked on a variety of films, including fictitious, emotive, and films that addressed societal concerns including caste prejudice, water scarcity, and more. Now, Ekavali Khanna depicts a lawyer in “Masoom Sawaal” who fights the stigma associated to menstruation. In her previous films, Ekavali demonstrated undivided attention and integrity in the execution of her assignments. Thus, we can attest to the fact that she will inspire her fans once again with her talent and movie “Masoom Sawaal”.
Menstruation, A Taboo In India!
“Masoom Sawaal’’ is the Hindi translation for ‘’innocent question’’. The title itself implies that someone is clueless of a fact, which prompts the question. The movie’s story revolves around menstruation and the shame associated with it, as we’ve already stated. These stigmas are all manifestations of racism in society toward menstruation. Now what are the queries and why did they rise, you will get to know upon seeing the film.
What Prompted Ekavali For The Film?
Few days ago in an interview, Ekavali Khanna disclosed the motivation driving her participation in this. She said: “When I received the narration from our director, the first thing that struck me was that this is a very unusual concept.” Even though it was a great storyline, it was quite relevant. I personally come from a pretty modern family where menstruation is not taboo, but I have observed that there is a sizable portion of India where menstruation is such a big deal with a lot of unnecessary and disagreeable customs. Ekavali adds, “Women are considered as an outcast, and I myself find this upsetting. If a movie is being done to shatter a taboo and promote change, I believe it would give insight on many women’s experiences in India, and I would love to be a part of it.
Director Shares The Story Behind The Movie’s Inspiration
Santosh Upadhyay, the director, also discussed the genesis behind the film. He said- ‘’In 2014, a girl in the 8th grade approached me and stated a desire to speak with me in person, away from parents. Then she asked- Sir! Why do women get their periods? Truthfully, I didn’t have a response for that defenseless kid. So I enquired why she was asking like this. The description she shared about her house, influenced me to make this movie. Even now, a 14-year-old girl is grieving over something so ordinary in a big metropolis like Delhi. Menstruation stigma is something that the nation regrettably fosters. I found the confidence to do this film because of this inspiration. Somewhere, a spark ignited, and I began to work with it.’’
The movie “Masoom Sawaal” seeks to demonstrate conservative intellectuals’ notions as well as break a taboo. We hope the film succeeds in conveying its message and bringing about the transformation. Our best wishes to Ekavali Khanna and the crew, who truly inspire us.
