What is it about women laughing that makes men angry?
This was the headline of one of the many rubbish articles that propaganda driven publications could not refrain from publishing. This is what I understood:
A woman mocking, disrespecting someone with a loud, non-stop laughter, almost interrupting his speech, making him inaudible on an honourable platform is okay.
But God forbid, if a man asks her to behave, or makes a sarcastic comment in response he is a misogynist!
This was not about gender. This was about basic respect.
Every day I read articles on how feminism has gone too far. I always jump in defense. Feminism is needed. Women do not get basic respect, I say. Our society is chauvinistic, and misogynist, I believe.
Some feminist writers have used this opportunity to write about how women are taught not to laugh and how the country in general is intolerant to women laughing! I found it quite ridiculous. It reminded me of a comedy scene from the movie, ‘Tanu weds Manu returns’. Tanu says something like “500 saalon se auraton pe atyachar ho raha hai.” Manu says “To mujh akele se badla logi kya?”
I do not know on what planet that kind of a laughter was acceptable in the context. I am not supporting the remark made. I just don’t like it when the “woman card” is used in a way where it completely defeats the purpose of equality. A woman can be disrespectful because for centuries, we have been suppressed?? But a man should not because she is a woman!!
Yes, women have been taught that laughing out loud is unfeminine. Our laughter should be a little sweet, a little soft, a little cute. A slight giggle probably. Pleasing to the ears. I agree it is sexist. It is unfair. However, this was not like that!!
If we cannot distinguish between laughing and laughing at someone with the intention of mocking and insulting, then I don’t think we should be talking about feminism. Maybe step 1 would be to talk about basic human behavior and interactions, and respect.
Yes. I know. Freedom of speech. Freedom of expression. Unfortunately, it is a double-edged sword.