Neglected for far too long, it is common knowledge how widespread the problem of sanitation is in India. And when it comes to women, an inaccessibility to toilets is also associated with the feeling of shame. From girls dropping out of school after the onset of their periods, to young girls and women being heckled and even molested in open defecating grounds, the issue is far more widespread than we think it is. And awareness is the first step towards any tangible change.
Which is why the Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar-starrer Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was such an important film of 2017, driving the message of accessible sanitation to the big screens and the homes of people in a relatable and entertaining way. And as it turns out, the film did strike a chord globally as well. Philanthropist and Co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, tweeted recently to express his appreciation for the movie and listing it as one of the “amazing moments of hope and progress”.
1/ There’s no denying that 2017 was a really tough year… but it also delivered some amazing moments of hope and progress. Here are some inspiring tweets that you may have missed…
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) December 19, 2017
3/ “Toilet: A Love Story,” a Bollywood romance about a newlywed couple, educated audiences about India’s sanitation challenge. https://t.co/TIRRmcamLy
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) December 19, 2017
The film delves into the lives of a newly married couple where the wife is forced to leave her husband on finding out that he has no toilet in his house. After Bill Gates endorsement, you should definitely watch the movie, if you haven’t already!