As India celebrates its 76th Republic Day, we reflect on the evolving roles and responsibilities of its citizens. Let’s take a pause for a moment to think about an intriguing topic: the position of men in contemporary Indian society. Wait,wait-before you roll your eyes, this isn’t going to be a dry lecture. Think of it as a fun chat over call, and a dash of humor. As we know, the position of Indian men in the society is becoming increasingly diverse and varied. Men are now venturing out of their stereotypical role of just being the breadwinner. They are holding multiple positions gracefully.
Mohit Upadhayay, a Mechanical Engineering graduate, the Retail Digital Marketing Lead at Haldiram’s, says
“India has always held men in high regard as pillars of strength and responsibility, yet today’s men face immense pressure to meet societal expectations while balancing their personal growth. The conversation around men’s well-being needs to extend beyond physical health to include mental and emotional resilience. Encouraging healthier lifestyles, self-care and open conversations is essential for a balanced, thriving society.
Now, Let's look at how men and their status in society have evolved over seven decades.
Throwback Time to Men in the Days of Yore
Picture this: it’s ancient India. Men are warriors, scholars, and kings. Fast forward a bit, and they’re the primary breadwinners, protectors, and let’s be honest, the ultimate decision-makers. Society gave them power, yes, but also a laundry list of responsibilities. The ancient scriptures had already set men up with huge responsibilities on their shoulders as the ideal example in the society.
Fast forward to the present, and these expectations haven’t disappeared, they’ve just mutated. Now, men are still expected to earn, provide, lead, while still upholding roles of being sensitive partners,emotionally and financially involved dads, career driven professionals, educators, and social activists.
As Franco John Patil, Deputy General Manager – Marketing & Trade Relations, Red Dot Representation, puts it
“The role of men in Indian society has evolved significantly, yet the journey toward true equality, holistic well-being, and personal growth continues. Traditionally viewed as providers and protectors, today’s men are embracing multifaceted roles as nurturers, allies, and advocates for positive change. However, the pressure to conform to societal expectations often limits their emotional and mental well-being.” –
The Education Shift
Let’s talk numbers. According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021, male literacy is at 84.7%. Sounds great, right? But here’s the twist: more women are stepping into higher education, and the gender gap is narrowing faster than you can think.
This shift is a good thing, but it also means men are under more pressure to stand out in the competitive job market. No more coasting through just because society said, “You’re the man!”
Breaking the Stereotype around “Feelings”
Indian society often confines men into one archetype- the string, silent type. Crying? Nope. Asking for help? Don't even think about it, you’re supposed to do it yourself. But guess what? Men are humans too, they are emotional beings and they have feelings– indeed they may express the same differently but it does not mean that they don't have a sensitive and vulnerable side to them.
A study by the International Journal of Indian Psychology found that men often suppress emotions to avoid being labeled as “weak”. The result? Stress, anxiety, and a silent mental health crisis. The cure? Awareness and Recognition.
Let’s Get Real,
How often do we encourage the men in our lives to open up? Next time your dad, brother,or friend seems off, try saying, “Hey, are you okay?” You might be surprised at how much they appreciate it. Although this might seem like a small step, it can make a huge difference.
Men in Pop Culture
Movies often reflect societal norms, and the Indian public runs on three things: Entertainment, Entertainment and Entertainment. And thus, Bollywood stands as one of the largest film industries in the whole world.
Let's talk about Bollywood’s portrayal of men. It has indeed come a long way. From Sholay’s Jai and Veeru exemplifying the typical “macho man” archetype to Dear Zindagi’s Dr. Jehangir Khan teaching us to be vulnerable, we’re definitely seeing a shift in how men are being portrayed as complex individuals with multiple sides to them. Men aren’t just saviors or stoic heroes, but they’re complex, flawed, relatable, and most importantly, human.
“Men's roles in Indian society have always been defined by tradition and they have often been seen as breadwinners and decision makers. However, as an entrepreneur and someone who has been closely following these changes, I believe that this role is evolving in many ways. Today, men are no longer defined only by their ability to earn, instead, they are being encouraged to embrace qualities like empathy and support, traits that were not always associated with masculinity in the past.”
-Mr. Karan Sehdev, Founder, Merch Matters.
Let’s Redefine Manliness in Tomorrow's India
The men of tomorrow aren’t bound by traditional roles and imposing expectations. Times are changing and we can see that they’re playing multiple roles of being partners who share household chores, fathers who attend PTA meetings, and individuals who seek therapy whenever necessary without any shame. Society needs to support the shift by normalizing equality and emotional openness.
“Of course, this change isn’t always easy. As a society, we need to have open conversations about mental health, gender equality, and how men can adapt to these changes.” shares Karan Sehdev, Founder, Merch Matters.
Your turn to Pitch in:
Compliment a male friend or colleague today for something non-work related.
Have a conversation about mental health with the men in your life.
Share this blog with someone who needs to hear this!
An Environment Of Empowerment
It is indeed true that Men too need an environment which nurtures them and their interests. Often, men are forced into boxes where limited ambitions are promoted, they are faced with limited choices– thus, limiting their growth. But men in the industry are focussing more on holistic development and growth in the coming times, looking forward to a more all-round definition of empowerment for men. India is growing it all its might and the men of today's generation are looking forward to striking a perfect work-life balance. Ambition is crucial but so is self care and one's mental and physical health.
Since, it is the 76th year of India becoming a Republic, It is great moment for us to look back at how far men have come– from being hustlers and nation builders to becoming the flag bearers of tomorrow's India– one that is not plagued by the constant pressure of hustling and grinding but one that is filled with ambition and empowers the dreams of many men– even if the dreams are not exactly conventional in nature.
As Franco John Patil, Deputy General Manager – Marketing & Trade Relations, Red Dot Representation, shares
“It’s crucial that we foster an environment where men feel empowered to be vulnerable, seek support, and redefine their identities beyond traditional norms. By prioritizing their physical fitness, manifesting positivity, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, men can achieve holistic well-being and personal fulfillment.”
Cheers to progress!
Progress has become undeniable in every aspect– indeed, there is still a long way to go. But progress must be appreciated and remembered. Men are gradually abandoning the idea that masculinity must be synonymous with dominance, they are embracing vulnerability, diverse roles and emotional openness; they are striving to achieve their goals while looking after their mental and physical well-being. Men are more than thick beards and tensed brows, they are responsible partners, workers and most importantly, Individuals.
As Mr. Karan Sehdev, Founder of Merch Matters, says,
“In the business world, this shift is clear. Companies now value emotional intelligence as much as professional skills. Men are expected to lead with kindness, take responsibility, and create inclusive workplaces where everyone’s voice matters. At home, men are becoming equal partners, breaking stereotypes of what a father, husband, or son should be. The position of men in India today is no longer about dominance; it’s about balance. Balancing ambition with kindness, power with responsibility, and tradition with progress. It’s time for men to take the lead in bringing this change, in their homes, workplaces, and communities, so we can create a better future for the next generation”
As we celebrate Republic Day this year, let’s remember that true quality is about uplifting everyone-women, men, everyone in between. Let’s ditch the stereotypes, appreciate the real struggles and strength of Indian men, and build a society where everyone thrives.