Educate a woman and educate a family: Riteish Deshmukh

Educating the girl child is one cause that is extremely close to my heart. I strongly believe that children, especially girls should be given an opportunity to receive education. It is often and with reason said that when you educate a woman, you educate the entire family”, says  Riteish, who whole-heartedly lends his support to DNA’s I Can Women’s Half Marathon. Echoing his sentiments, wife Genelia too agrees saying, “I can’t stress enough on how important education for a woman is. If a woman is educated, she will make sure whichever house she’s in, is aware and educated too. That is how it should ideally be.”

Talking about cervical cancer, Genelia says awareness about it is very important. “I believe an awareness about cervical cancer is important as it could affect anyone. Those unaware of it can learn a lot about it when they participate in the marathon organised by DNA,” says Genelia.

Both husband and wife agree that safety for women in public places needs to be addressed immediately. Says Genelia,  “I am privileged enough to have a car. And though I feel safe, there are many out there who can’t claim that. Women should not have to worry about these things and be allowed to move around freely.” Riteish adds, “Besides creating an awareness, it is important that we follow it up as well. There should be strict punishment for people who do not abide by the laws to avoid a repitition of such incidents.”