Actor Ekta Tiwari believes International Men’s Day (IMD) is an important occasion to appreciate the men in our lives and acknowledge their challenges. Reflecting on her plans for the day, she said, “I plan to spend time with the men who matter to me and show gratitude for their role in my life. Small gestures, like listening to their concerns or celebrating their achievements, can make a big difference.”
Ekta pointed out how IMD is slowly gaining acceptance, although it hasn’t reached the scale of Women’s Day. “It’s good to see conversations around men’s mental health and emotional well-being increasing. There’s still a long way to go, but recognizing their struggles and contributions is a step in the right direction,” she noted.
When asked about a male figure she admires, Ekta mentioned her father. “He’s someone I deeply respect for his strength and empathy. His actions have always reflected the values he believes in, and that’s inspiring,” she shared.
Discussing how the portrayal of men in media has changed, Ekta said, “Men are no longer limited to being stoic heroes. Today’s stories show them as flawed, vulnerable, and emotional, which makes them more relatable. This shift helps break the stereotype that men can’t express their feelings.”
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On whether IMD should hold equal importance to Women’s Day, she remarked, “Both days have their significance, but ultimately, the focus should be on mutual respect and inclusivity. Recognizing men’s emotional and societal roles is just as crucial as celebrating women’s empowerment.”
For Ekta, IMD is about fostering awareness and building balanced relationships. “It’s not about grand celebrations but acknowledging the value men bring to our lives and encouraging healthier conversations around their emotions and struggles,” she concluded.