Neena Gupta reveals why she doesn’t ‘whisper’ the word ‘sex’ anymore: ‘I feel it’s very overrated’ | Feelings News

Unapologetic, bold and wise, veteran actor Neena Gupta remains a force to reckon with. In a recent episode of Lilly Singh’s podcast, she opened up about why she no longer hesitates to say the word sex out loud. “Now I don’t whisper. Earlier I used to,” she told the host.
When asked what stirred this change, the Badhaai Do star shared, “I feel it’s a very overrated thing, and I feel very sad for women and sex. I’m talking about 99 per cent or maybe 95 per cent of Indian women, who don’t know that sex is for enjoyment. It is to please a man and have babies.”
According to Muskan Marwah, psycholog at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust, sex continues to be a heavily stigmatised subject in India, especially for women. “Deep-rooted cultural taboos have fostered a society where open conversations about sexuality are rare, creating an atmosphere of shame and secrecy. This silence has severe consequences for women’s mental health, sense of intimacy, and overall well-being,” she said.
“From a young age, girls are often taught to view their bodies as private and to suppress any sexual desires. These social norms suggest that women’s sexuality is something to be controlled or hidden. As a result, many women grow up without a proper understanding of their bodies, sexual rights, or healthy intimate relationships,” Marwah said.
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How does that impact women?
Marwah pointed out that the lack of access to comprehensive sex education often leaves women confused, anxious, or burdened with guilt about their natural desires. Without the language or tools to understand and express their sexuality, many internalise the idea that their feelings are wrong or shameful, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-worth.
“The absence of open communication about sexual desires, boundaries, and needs can create emotional dance between partners. Women may feel pressured to conform to their partner’s expectations or may withdraw from intimacy altogether due to guilt or shame. The result is often a dissatisfying sexual relationship—one that lacks mutual understanding and respect,” she said.
This silence, Marwah said, builds deep frustration and leads to dissatisfaction in relationships. In some cases, it creates emotional alienation between partners. Over time, the inability to speak openly about sex can erode emotional bonds and further strain relationships.
Intimacy is essential in a relationship (Source: Freepik)
How can we change this culture?
According to Marwah, breaking the silence around sex in India is essential to addressing these issues and improving the well-being of women.Story continues below this ad
“Encouraging open, honest conversations about sexuality—beginning at home, continuing in schools, and extending to society—is crucial. Comprehensive sex education must go beyond reproductive health. It should include discussions about consent, emotional intimacy, and sexual rights, so women feel empowered to take control of their sexual health,” she said.
Parents and families also play an important role in fostering an environment where discussions about sexuality are normalised, helping young girls understand and accept their own bodies without shame. “This shift would not only improve women’s mental health but also lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships, helping break the cycle of shame that has plagued Indian society for generations,” Marwah said.