Actress Radhika Apte has recently spoken out about the insensitivity she faced in the Indian entertainment industry during her early pregnancy while fulfilling professional commitments.

Apte's experience highlights the pregnancy bias that exists in Bollywood, a topic that has gained attention in recent years. In 2015, she starred in a short film titled "The Calling," which addressed pregnancy-based discrimination in the corporate world. The film depicted a pregnant architect facing discrimination at work, echoing the challenges many women encounter when balancing motherhood and their careers.

In the film, Apte's character confronts her boss about being judged for her pregnancy rather than her work. The boss suggests she focus on her baby and consider a promotion upon her return, to which Apte's character asserts her ability to manage both roles. This scenario reflects the real-life pressures and biases that pregnant women often face in the workplace. Some common biases include assumptions about a woman's commitment to her career and concerns about her availability and performance during and after pregnancy.

Beyond the film, Apte's recent remarks underscore that these biases are also present in Bollywood. While she did not explicitly detail the "insensitivity" she experienced, her statement implies a lack of understanding and support from some individuals within the industry. This could manifest in various ways, such as being passed over for roles, facing pressure to conceal her pregnancy, or encountering negative attitudes towards her changing body.

The challenges Apte and other women in Bollywood face reflect broader societal issues surrounding motherhood and career. Many people still hold traditional beliefs about a woman's primary role as a caregiver, which can lead to prejudice against pregnant women and mothers in professional settings. This bias can limit opportunities for women and perpetuate gender inequality in the workplace.

Radhika Apte's openness about her experiences is a step towards raising awareness and promoting change within Bollywood. By sharing her story, she encourages a dialogue about the need for greater understanding, support, and inclusivity for pregnant women and mothers in the industry. It remains crucial for the entertainment industry to address these biases and create a more equitable environment for women who choose to balance their careers and motherhood.