I can see the change: Farhan Akhtar on ­women’s safety

Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar, who launched a social campaign — MARD (Men Against Rape and Discrimination) — after the Delhi gangrape on Dec 16 2012, feels that things are looking up with regards to ­women’s safety in India.

Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar, who launched a social campaign — MARD (Men Against Rape and Discrimination) — after the Delhi gangrape on Dec 16 2012, feels that things are looking up with regards to ­women’s safety in India.

"I believe change is ­difficult to happen overnight. All of us are involved in this process of change at some level and that’s great. All of us, most importantly, have become more aware of how acute the problem is and are openly talking about it," says the 40-year-old.

He says he is trying his best to work towards change. “I will do my best and contribute as much as I can to create awareness. I am happy that I am part of this change. The issues that MARD addresses, about gender equality and respect for women, needs every possible avenue and platform,” he emphasises, adding that things are improving ­gradually.

"Earlier, only a few ­sections of the society would talk about harassment, that too in a hush-hush tone. When you have to treat a problem, you have to first diagnose it and ­understand how severely it needs treatment. As long as we keep the spotlight on the problem and keep the volume up, a solution will have to be found."