Artists can do their part in moulding public opinion: Aamir Khan

MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Amir Khan has taken on turn to speak against sexual harassment that recently fell upon his Dangal co-star Zaira Wasim, who was molested on a flight Saturday night

“I understand that people are free to be romantically involved with whoever they want but you cannot pressure a person into being with you physically. It happens not only in films but in all walks of life and is very unfortunate,” shared Aamir, whose recent films Dangal and Secret Superstar focused on female empowerment.

He remarked that sexual harassment is a very sad thing to happen to anyone, irrespective of what your sex is, while speaking to media on the Harvey Weinstein case.

Aamir also revealed that he feels sexual harassment should not be looked into isolation as it's connected to larger issues of how gender roles have been defined in society: “It is this thinking of patriarchy that men are stronger or are more important that leads to various regressive practices. Sexual harassment is one of them."

In his words, creative people have an important role to play in changing mindsets regarding gender issues, and that artists can do their part in moulding public opinion.

“Creative people do have a role to play in showcasing men and women in a manner that influences people in the right way. I believe we have some sort of responsibility in that,” he opined, adding that he hopes things will change in the future for the better. "It takes time both for the people and the society to change”, the actor turned producer said