Renowned Bollywood screenwriter Javed Akhtar, known for his outspoken views, responded to a troll who called him ‘son of a traitor’ by reminding him of his family’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle. The exchange highlights the online harassment faced by celebrities for expressing their opinions.
Tawaifs, traditionally known as dance-girls, have played a multifaceted role in Indian history and society. Beyond their artistic performances, they managed their establishments, cultivated traditional arts, and often wielded power in royal courts. From the mythological era to the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods, tawaifs enjoyed an elite status and were patrons of the arts. However, their decline began with the arrival of the East India Company and the subsequent social reforms that stigmatized their profession. Despite adversity, tawaifs made significant contributions to the Indian freedom struggle, with many taking up arms and sacrificing themselves for the cause.
