Women need to defend themselves: Shazahn Padamsee

“A while ago I was at a friend’s house in Juhu and on way back I was getting into an auto, when a bunch of men came to steal my bag! Luckily my friend had really long nails and scratched his hand so he pulled back and we told our auto driver to speed off and we fled the scene,” recalls actor Shazahn Padamsee, as she highlights the importance of women’s safety in Mumbai.

Talking about Stayfree DNA I Can Women’s Half Marathon, an initiative organised by DNA, Shazahn expresses how glad and happy she is that  there is focus on the fundamental needs of the present time. “I completely support this cause. These initiatives are very important in today’s world. It brings awareness among women and it also helps them take the necessary preventive measures to stay healthy.”

“Being a woman in the 21st century has many advantages. But one area where women have always been vulnerable is their personal safety. The reason is a lot of women have failed to adapt to changing times and remained dependent on others for their safety. It is vital for such women to defend themselves,” she adds.

Shazahn also emphasises the importance of awareness programmes focusing on issues like cervical cancer. She says, “Cervical cancer is never spoken about openly, as a result many women are unaware about it. In the majority of developing countries, cervical cancer remains the number-one cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Awareness is very important so that we can prevent it. Total knowledge can help us not only personally but also help our close ones.”

The young actor also roots for the need to educate the girl child. “Education of the girl child is very important. It helps boost one’s confidence. An educated girl can stand up for her rights when they are violated. She can be independent and also raise her family. Educating a girl is like educating an entire family,” she signs off.