Renowned actress Bhavana Menon, known for her remarkable career in the film industry, has defied stereotypes by maintaining a flourishing professional journey while managing her household in Bengaluru alongside her husband, Naveen. In a recent interview, Menon expressed her surprise at the prevailing belief that marriage puts an end to career opportunities for women.
Addressing the misconception that marriage marks the conclusion of a female actor’s career, Menon shared her determination to break away from this narrative. Having started her career at the age of 15, she highlighted the prevalent industry sentiment that marriage signals retirement for actresses. However, Menon was resolute in her decision not to succumb to such expectations, emphasizing her commitment to remaining active in the entertainment world. Her husband, Naveen, shared a similar mindset, fostering an environment that allowed Menon to continue her professional pursuits.
Reflecting on the current state of cinema, Menon emphasized the importance of challenging conventions. She asserted that the age-old notion about female actors quitting post-marriage needed reassessment. According to Menon, the key to drawing audiences lies in producing quality films, debunking the notion that people no longer frequent theaters. Additionally, she acknowledged the significance of OTT platforms, especially during the peak of the pandemic when traditional cinema halls were inaccessible. Menon observed a growing trend of audiences discerning between movies suitable for OTT viewing and those best experienced on the big screen.
Touching upon a personal matter, Menon mentioned the ongoing legal proceedings related to a sexual assault case she filed against a Malayalam film actor in 2017. Undeterred, she affirmed her stance as a fighter and expressed her belief in every woman’s right to make individual choices in handling life’s challenges. Menon emphasized the importance of freedom for women to navigate situations according to their preferences.
In essence, Bhavana Menon’s journey stands as a testament to her resilience, challenging societal norms and advocating for the empowerment of women in both personal and professional spheres.