FEMINISM IS NOT ISOLATING WOMEN: KALKI KOECHLIN

The actor, who proudly refers to herself as a feminist, feels that women have the capability to overtake men in all spheres of life

Actor Kalki Koechlin (left) says it is a wrong perception that feminism and empowerment are isolating women from the world. The 33-year-old, who identifies herself as a feminist, says women cannot let fear dictate their decisions. “Women aren’t being isolated because of feminism. We are the carriers of the species. We have already been isolated throughout history. Being inside a home and isolated is just the same. We can’t be afraid of being isolated anymore. That is part of the fight,” says Kalki. The actor says that if at all there is something to be worried about, it’s about what will happen if women start taking over. “If there is any fear, I think, it is about women overtaking (men). I don’t think that’s right either. Again, the balance will tip the other way. Men may think women are taking over their jobs. But women can’t be sidelined forever.” The actor is glad that feminism is a trending topic and says people discussing it is taking a step forward. “Feminism talks about an egalitarian society — all humans are equal, irrespective of their gender. That’s the only thing I want to put across. But we are still far from it,” Kalki says. The actor, who will next be seen in Konkona Sensharma’s directorial debut, says that the actor-turned filmmaker is a ‘detailer’. “This is a good-looking film set in the ’70s, with the bell-bottoms and sideburns. Konkona is very specific about what she wants. This is because she is an actor first. We did a lot of workshops. It created a comfortable dynamic for the team on the sets. Most directors don’t come on the costume trials or make-up sessions. But she did,” says Kalki, who plays femme fatale, Mimi, in the film. The actor adds that she would love to work in a Bollywood potboiler but does not get many offers. “From a practical point of view, it would be wise of me to do more commercial cinema. But ultimately, the film has to be creative and exciting,” she adds.

PHOTO: PTI