Girls should no longer be considered a burden: Priyanka Chopra

TAMPA BAY: Actress Priyanka Chopra feels that the mindset of people in India needs to change and they should no longer think of a girl as a burden.

Priyanka was part of a session titled 'Girl Rising Project' on the third day of IIFA awards here, where noted actress Shabana Azmi was also present.

"I hear stories like a girl is not given education because she is going to go to another family. A boy is educated because he will bring income to the family. It is horrible. I feel the mindset of people need to change in India that a girl child is not a burden," Priyanka said.

"I am lucky that I had the opportunity to choose and do what I want to do. We all should support the future of a girl," she added.

The 31-year-old actress said celebrities should take some time off from their busy schedules and do their bit for the society.

"As an actor I do as much as I can. I think we all should take time to do something for society... it is important," she said.

A short film on the same subject 'Girl Rising Project' was also shown. Priyanka loved the film so much that she plans to talk to her friends in Bollywood to make this film in Hindi and other regional languages.

Priyanka feels fortunate that her parents have given her the freedom of speech and the right to stand up for what she believes in.

"I feel fortunate that in my family we had equal opportunity (for boys and girls). I think we must have equal faith in girls and boys. Parents need to change their mindset," she said.