Pratibha Ranta, the breakout star of Laapata Ladies and Heeramandi, has captured the attention of audiences nationwide with her powerful performances. Known for her acting talent and hailed by some as the “national crush,” Pratibha recently opened up about women’s safety, societal issues, and menstruation in a candid interview. She emphasised the importance of men understanding the challenges women face, particularly during menstruation, and shared a personal anecdote on the subject.
Advocating Awareness of Menstruation
Pratibha recounted a significant experience with a male friend who expressed curiosity about menstruation and sanitary pads. She highlighted the need for open dialogue about topics like menstruation, especially between men and women, to foster understanding and empathy.
In her interview, she recalled, “I was on my period and told my (boy)friend, ‘I can’t walk much today.’ He panicked a bit because it was the first time anyone had openly talked to him about it. He started explaining in textbook language how periods work, and I just laughed and said, ‘Yeah, I know.’”
This moment, Pratibha explained, helped them build a more comfortable relationship. Her friend later asked her to show him what a sanitary pad looked like, saying that his mother had always hidden such things from him. She responded by handing him an extra pad she had in her bag, assuring him that there was nothing taboo about it. “There’s no problem with it,” she told him, underscoring her belief in normalising conversations around menstruation.
A Journey from Himachal to Stardom
Pratibha also reflected on her journey from Himachal Pradesh to the entertainment industry in Mumbai. She acknowledged that television gave her recognition back in her hometown, but it was a challenge to make a name for herself in the bustling film city.
Coming from a family where women were always empowered to make their own decisions, Pratibha credited her grandmother, a teacher with a passion for dance, as a major influence. “My grandmother taught Hindi when Indian women rarely worked, and she even taught students to dance,” she said, adding that her family also runs an apple business at home.
Importance of Experience and Knowledge
Concluding the interview, Pratibha emphasised that real-life experience enhances understanding and gives knowledge its true shape. By sharing her personal experiences and promoting open conversations, Pratibha Ranta continues to be a voice for women’s empowerment and awareness in society.
