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The Hidden Harms of Hypocrisy in Indian Society

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Recently, a wave of online and societal criticism has been directed towards a young girl named Prachi Nigam, who topped the class 10 board exams in Uttar Pradesh. Despite her achievement, Prachi faced severe backlash for her excess facial hair. This incident reflects a broader issue of hypocrisy in Indian society, where women are often subjected to relentless scrutiny of their appearance, while men are often spared from such criticism.

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Prachi Nigam's Case: A Spark for Wider Dialogue

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Prachi Nigam, a 14-year-old who excelled academically, brought attention to herself when a photo of her with excess facial hair appeared in the newspaper. The immediate and overwhelming backlash she faced highlights the hypocrisies and double standards prevalent in Indian society. Echoes of this event can be found in countless discussions online, where the comments section was dominated by calls for her to cover up and unironic critique of her appearance.

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Shouting Ignorance: The Author's Response and Social Commentary

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The incident sparked an answer on Quora that questioned whether Prachi should have removed her facial hair before posing for a press photo. The author’s logic was disturbingly simplistic, suggesting that by removing her facial hair, she could have anticipated negative feedback. This viewpoint, endorsed by many commenters, was even more alarming. The uncomfortable truth is that younger girls like Prachi may not have the financial means, medical advice, or confidence to address such issues, yet the societal expectation is that they should.

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The Broader Context of Gender Bias in Society

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While the author’s suggestion is bizarre, it’s not an isolated incident. Society often criticizes women of all ages for their appearance, regardless of whether they undergo cosmetic procedures or let their natural features shine through. The narrative persists that women should either meticulously groom themselves or face significant ridicule. This discourse has deep-rooted implications, as it not only affects women’s self-esteem but also perpetuates a culture of constant judgment and scrutiny.

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Moreover, the incident highlights a disturbing double standard. It is common for actresses and celebrities to undergo cosmetic procedures to enhance their appearance, often viewed as a matter of personal choice. Conversely, when women decide to embrace their natural features, they are often labeled as unkempt or unnatural. This contradiction is emblematic of the broader societal issue of hypocrisy and injustice.

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Why Women Must Be Free to Be Themselves

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It is crucial for society to understand that every individual, regardless of gender, is entitled to their unique journey and choices. The demand for uniform beauty standards and the constant criticism of natural features serve no constructive purpose. Instead, they contribute to a culture of self-doubt and dissatisfaction, particularly affecting women in India, who often feel pressured to conform to idealistic and unrealistic expectations.

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Now, why must we criticize women for every choice they make? In an ideal scenario, society should support and celebrate women for their achievements and contributions, rather than focusing on superficial aspects of their appearance. Makeup and skincare choices should be personal and empowering, not sources of judgment and stigma.

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The harsh reality is that women in India are subjected to a barrage of scrutiny and criticism for even the smallest decisions. Whether they wear makeup or let their facial hair grow, both options can lead to backlash. The lack of validation and support for women's choices fosters an environment of negativity and discrimination.

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What we really need is a shift in societal values, where women can express themselves freely and confidently, without fearing the judgment of others. We must recognize that every person, regardless of gender, has the right to choose their path and express themselves authentically. It is time for society to let women be who they are without constant criticism and judgment.

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Conclusion: A Call for Change

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The Prachi Nigam incident serves as a stark reminder of the entrenched hypocrisies in Indian society. It is time for a paradigm shift where women are not just free from criticism for their choices but are also celebrated and supported in their journeys. As a society, we must work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive without fear of judgment or blame for their choices.