Brave Move: Deepika Padukone stands by JNU students, right wing says boycott films

In a brave move, actor Deepika Padukone went to JNU to express solidarity with the protestors. The University has been seeing massive protests since Jan 5th Sunday when violence broke, and over 25 students and teachers were injured. We call this a bold move but Padukone is already getting attacked on social media for 'using it for publicity for her new film Chhapaak' and many right wing handles have called to boycott her films. She chose JNU over other colleges, and she is India's biggest mainstream actor to show up at the University in solidarity with students. Padukone attended a public meeting, called by the JNU Teacher's Association and JNU Students' Union in response to Sunday's attack on students and teachers by a masked mob armed with sticks and rods. Padukone was also present during the time former JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar raised slogans; she then left by the time current president Aishe Ghosh started to speak. Ghosh was badly injured on Sunday after being hit on her head with rods.

Deepika Padukone at JNU

"There are many people in Bollywood who do not put forth their views when they are not be aired. They are considered role models," said Ghosh. "I appeal to them: Make inspiring films after something has happened but when you are in that position, also talk about the story that is currently happening."

The 34-year-old actor is in the capital to promote her upcoming release, Meghna Gulzar-directed 'Chhapaak'. Deepika Padukone arrived at the JNU campus around 7:30 pm, attended a public meeting for around 15 minutes and left after speaking to a few members of the students' union.

Padukone on Monday said she feels proud that people have come out and raised their voice without fear, in reference to the protests against the amended Citizenship Act, the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and violence in JNU.

"I feel proud to see that we aren't scared to express ourselves... I think the fact that we are thinking about the country and its future.... Whatever may be our point of view, it's nice to see," she had said.