Fri Feb 28 13:53:23 UTC 2025: ## Telugu Superstar’s Remarks Spark Outrage Over Gender Bias

**Hyderabad, India** – Telugu megastar Chiranjeevi’s recent comments expressing his desire for a grandson to carry on his family legacy have ignited a firestorm of criticism. Speaking at a film event, Chiranjeevi jokingly compared his home life with granddaughters to a “ladies’ hostel,” expressing his wish for a son to continue the family line.

These remarks, widely perceived as sexist, have drawn significant backlash on social media. Critics argue that such statements from influential celebrities like Chiranjeevi, who boasts a massive following across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and beyond, reinforce harmful gender biases. The concern is that these comments normalize a preference for sons, undermining efforts towards gender equality.

The controversy highlights a deeper societal issue: the persistent preference for sons over daughters prevalent in many cultures, particularly in India and China. A 2020 UN report cited by the Pew Research Center estimates that 142.6 million females went “missing” globally between 1970 and 2020 due to sex-selective abortion or neglect, with India and China accounting for the majority. This preference stems from deeply ingrained cultural beliefs about sons as primary providers and inheritors of family legacies.

Lakshmi Krishnan, president of the Society for the Promotion of Women and Child Welfare in Delhi, emphasized the impact of celebrity statements, particularly as efforts are underway to bridge the gender gap. She noted that the portrayal of women in Telugu cinema often reinforces these biases, with female leads frequently relegated to ornamental roles. While films like “Bahubali” feature strong female characters, the underlying emphasis on male lineage remains a reflection of societal norms.

Despite legal reforms granting daughters equal inheritance rights under the Hindu Succession Act, deeply rooted cultural biases persist, fueled by traditions like sons performing last rites. Women remain underrepresented in the formal workforce, earning less than their male counterparts. While government initiatives like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” aim to promote gender equality, statements like Chiranjeevi’s threaten to undo years of progress.

Experts suggest that a shift towards a more balanced society, incorporating elements of both patrilineal and matrilineal systems, could help foster respect for daughters. However, they acknowledge that such a change requires a significant transformation of deeply ingrained mindsets. The incident underscores the crucial role celebrities play in shaping public opinion and the need for them to actively promote gender equality instead of perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

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