WHAT DO SUSAN SARANDON AND SONAKSHI SINHA HAVE IN COMMON? With a resume that includes an Oscar, a Bafta, along with titles that say humanitarian and social activist, Susan Sarandon’s foray into the farmers’ protests as a voice of solidarity to the cause comes at a time when India stands divided on its support for the grassroots movement. Sarandon threw her weight behind the protests, following similar a stance taken by singer Rihanna and climate activist Greta Thunberg. While the trio face backlash and legal threats for ‘interfering’ in matters beyond their scope, not everyone agrees with this thought process. While on one hand veteran Bollywood actors such as Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn toe the line issued by the establishment while voicing their disdain over a ‘propaganda’ against India, younger stars such as Sonakshi Sinha are choosing to go against the tide. Sinha also waded into the debate, saying: “While news and media will have you think that these are outside forces trying to control the functioning of our country, you must remember that these are not alien species but fellow humans who are speaking up for the rights of other humans.” Sinha’s tweet may cost her some plum projects in Bollywood, but it is refreshing to hear a voice of reason in times such as these. [COMMENT BY: Bindu Rai, Entertainment Editor]
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