MUMBAI: Actress Harleen Reikhi, who is currently seen in Kamdhenu Gaumata and is also a part of Binddii, believes that the International Day of the Girl Child is not just a symbolic occasion but a heartfelt reminder to empower and uplift girls across all walks of life.
“International Day of the Girl Child is very special to me,” Harleen shares. “Growing up, my mother has always been the strongest influence in my life. She’s a woman who believed in education and independence over household boundaries.”
Reflecting on her childhood, Harleen recalls how her mother broke social stereotypes at a time when daughters were often undervalued. “Thirty years ago, when having four daughters wasn’t always celebrated, my mother took a bold stand. She made sure we focused on our careers and grew into confident individuals. Whatever we are today, it’s because of her — and my father, who stood by her side,” she says.
While progress has been made, Harleen feels that the journey toward true gender equality is far from complete. “Being a girl comes with a lot of responsibilities even today. The challenges girls face may have reduced, but they haven’t disappeared. In many parts of the country, the girl child is still not valued the way she should be,” she explains.
The actress believes that empathy and collective effort can bring real change. “We all must be more empathetic and supportive toward girls. The entertainment industry too can play a role — through campaigns, awareness drives, or by contributing time and resources to empower young girls. Every small effort counts toward building a society that truly celebrates its daughters,” Harleen concludes with conviction.
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