In recent installment of Navya Naveli Nanda’s vodcast, “What The Hell Navya 2,” titled ‘Macho Myths and Modern Men,’ a family discussion unfolded involving Navya, her mother Shweta Bachchan, brother Agastya, and grandmother Jaya Bachchan. The focus of the conversation revolved around perceptions of modern masculinity and toxicity.
When Navya raised the topic of women asserting independence by wanting to pay for their meals on dates, Jaya Bachchan expressed a candid viewpoint, labeling those women as ‘stupid’ for doing so. Navya was in the midst of explaining how, in the era of feminism, some women prefer financial independence and feel offended when men offer to pay. Jaya interjected, stating, “How stupid of those women. You should let the men pay.”
Navya continued her point, questioning where the line should be drawn in terms of chivalry, and whether women appreciate such gestures. Jaya reiterated her perspective, dismissing the notion of women rejecting chivalry as foolish.
However, Agastya presented a different perspective, distinguishing between genuine chivalry and toxic behavior. He emphasized that as long as gestures are made with genuine politeness and a desire to be helpful, they won’t be perceived negatively. Agastya explained that actions like opening doors or expressing a willingness to pay for a meal should stem from a kind intent rather than a display of dominance.
