Deepika Padukone on JNU attack: Proud to see we aren’t scared to speak out

It is heartening to see people come out and raise their voice without fear, said actress Deepika Padukone as thousands across the country are taking to the streets to voice their protest against the amended Citizenship Act, the National Register of Citizens and violence in JNU. 

The 34-year-old actress, who is in the national capital to promote her upcoming release Chhapaak, said it is necessary for people to express their point of view to bring about change.

"I feel proud to see that we aren't scared to express ourselves... I think the fact that we are thinking about the country and its future.... Whatever may be our point of view, it's nice to see," Deepika was speaking to a TV channel on Monday night.

"I feel proud about it that people are coming out - be it on the streets or wherever they are - they are raising their voice and expressing themselves as it is important. If we want to see change in life and society, it is important that a point of view be put forward," she said.

Chhapaak, directed by Meghna Gulzar, releases countrywide on Friday.

Meghna, 46, said she can feel the pain of the people even though she is not well versed with the issues.

Not just Chhapaak crew, quite a few celebrities have even taken to the streets to speak out against the brutality.

Directors Vishal Bhardwaj, Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar and actresses Taapsee Pannu and Richa Chadha were among the host of Bollywood personalities who turned up at Carter Road in Mumbai in solidarity with those protesting against the violence at the JNU.

In a peaceful gathering of hundreds, Bollywood was at the forefront with prominent personalities from the fraternity, including Swara Bhasker, Sudhir Mishra, Rekha Bhardwaj, Anubhav Sinha, Dia Mirza, Rahul Dholakia, Ali Fazal, Neeraj Ghaywan, Reema Kagti, Hansal Mehta, Vikramaditya Motwane, Saurabh Shukla, Rajkumar Gupta, joining the protesters.

(Inputs from PTI)

• Deepika Padukone
• JNU attack
• Chhapaak