Kolkata: Actress and politician Rupa Ganguly, best known for playing Draupadi in BR Chopra’s iconic television series Mahabharat, has responded to criticism over wearing sindoor despite being a widow. Facing questions and trolling on social media, Rupa made it clear that her personal choices do not require approval or explanation from anyone.
The BJP leader said that wearing sindoor is her personal decision and she is not answerable to people questioning her choice. She also stated that she does not need to explain the reason behind wearing it or reveal for whom she applies sindoor.
‘I Don’t Need to Tell Anyone Why I Wear Sindoor’
In an interview, Rupa Ganguly addressed the questions surrounding women wearing sindoor after the death of their husbands. She said that the reason behind her choice is personal and she is not obligated to justify it to anyone.
The actress added that applying sindoor is her own decision and no one has the right to question her about it.
Rupa Ganguly Sacrificed Acting Career for Marriage
Rupa Ganguly married mechanical engineer Dhruv Mukhopadhyay in 1992. However, their marriage faced difficulties over the years and the couple eventually divorced in 2007.
Earlier, while speaking about her personal life, Rupa had revealed that she made several compromises in her acting career to save her marriage. She had adjusted her shooting schedule from morning till night so that she could spend more time with her family. Despite her efforts, the relationship could not continue.
Rupa gained nationwide recognition after portraying Draupadi in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, a role that made her a household name.
Nusrat Jahan Had Also Supported Personal Choice
Earlier, Bengali actress and politician Nusrat Jahan had also faced criticism over applying sindoor during Durga Puja celebrations. After pictures of her wearing a traditional white Bengali saree, conch bangles and sindoor surfaced, questions were raised on social media about her religious identity.
Responding to the criticism, Nusrat said that festivals belong to everyone and personal choices should be respected. She urged people who claim to understand everything about religion to keep their beliefs limited to themselves rather than judging others.
