Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has always been known for handling tough questions with grace and clarity. Long before she married and became a mother to Aaradhya, the former Miss World made headlines not just for her beauty, but also for her articulate views on tradition, culture, and values.
During her 2005 appearance on , Aishwarya confidently addressed perceptions about India, including the general perception of public displays of affection. “It’s not something commonly seen. People do kiss, but it’s more of a private expression, not something you’d see on street corners. Art reflects life, and that’s how it’s portrayed in our cinema,” said Aishwarya.
When Oprah further questioned her whether premarital sex was accepted in India, Aishwarya didn’t shy away from answering. She said, “Broadly speaking, it isn’t the good thing to do.” Her answer reflected a mix of cultural values and personal belief — one that continues to spark conversation even today, as attitudes toward sex, relationships, and morality evolve.
Psychologist Anjali Gursahaney tells , “In countries like India, cultural and societal expectations wield over individual .” She adds that Indian society has long emphasised values like purity, honour, and family reputation, especially tied to a woman’s sexuality. Premarital sex often gets framed as a moral issue rather than a personal or health-related choice.
Furthermore, various religions practiced in India (Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, etc.) traditionally advocate for abstinence before marriage, reinforcing conservative values. Gursahaney notes, “While modern media is becoming bolder, there’s still a double standard — female characters engaging in premarital sex are often portrayed with consequences, unlike their male counterparts. Arranged marriages, family honour, and ‘what will people say’ narratives deeply affect personal decision-making.”
Gursahaney explains that when a respected public figure like voices a conservative opinion, it can validate existing societal norms. She says that this can lead to:
Gursahaney suggests the following:
