Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™ LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

It is unfortunate that a natural process has the stigma of ‘shame’ … Says Radhika Apte

A still photo from the film 'PadMan'. Radhika Apre (L) with Akshay Kumar (R)

A still photo from the film 'PadMan'. Radhika Apte (L) with Akshay Kumar (R) Source: Mind Blowing Films

‘People need to understand the natural biological phenomenon in women. It is unfortunate that a natural process has the stigma of ‘shame’ in India … Says Radhika Apte, the leading actress of film Pad Man.


Pad Man is a film about a taboo subject in Indian society -  about menstruation. It is to raise awareness about hygiene, health and talk about the subject openly, which surrounds itself with many rituals, traditions and a  don’t or can’t do list.

Still from film Padman
Still from film Pad Man. Radhika Apte (L) and Akshay Kumar (R) Source: Mind Blowing Films

Speaking with SBS Radio, Radhika pointed out that if man from a small town could think about this, then why not we all.  She further added that everybody needs to understand the basic fact that Mensuration is the process and there is a great need for an awareness about it and the hygiene.

Still from film Padman
Still from film PadMan. Radhika Apte (L) with Akshay Kumar (R) Source: Mind Blowing Films

The film is inspired by real life story of Coimbatore-based Arunachalam Muruganantham, who devoted himself finding a way to improve enstrual health of his village women. He invented a machine and process to make low cost  and affordable sanitary napkins.

Still from film Padman
Still from film PadMan Source: Mind Blowing Films

Radhika, who plays Padman’s wife in this film said that her role was quite challenging but director  R. Balki, believed and was confident that she could do the role. She told that Balki Sir guided her through the role and often used to caution her that she must not forget the core emotion of the role ‘’the shame’

This film is set to challenge the social mindset of India

Still from film Padman
Still from film Pad Man. Akshay Kumar (L) and Sonam Kapoor (R) Source: Mind Blowing Films

Written and directed by R. Balk , film Pad Man  has Akshay Kumar, Sonam Kapoor and Radhika Apte in lead roles.

***


Share

Follow SBS Hindi

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our exclusive in-language podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS Hindi News

Watch it onDemand

Watch now