2 months ago
Redefining Masculinity: Athletes and Celebrities Embrace Vulnerability
A lot of famous men like athletes and actors are showing that it's okay to cry and express emotions.
This is changing old ideas about what it means to be a strong man.
People like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have cried after big games, and others like Virat Kohli and Ranveer Singh have talked about their feelings openly.
Experts say that hiding emotions can be bad for mental health, and showing emotions can actually make someone stronger.
This is helping young boys and men feel more comfortable with their feelings and understand that crying doesn't make you weak.
Prominent male figures like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Virat Kohli have publicly displayed emotions, challenging traditional masculinity norms.
Experts argue that suppressing emotions can lead to mental health issues, while expressing them can foster emotional strength.
Public figures are redefining strength by showing vulnerability, encouraging young men to embrace their emotions.
Shabbir Ali believes vulnerability should translate into resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Pullela Gopichand and Abhishek Banerjee advocate for emotional expression as a natural and strong part of being human.
- Who
- Athletes, celebrities, and public figures like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Virat Kohli, Ranveer Singh, and Allu Arjun.
- What
- A shift in societal perceptions of masculinity, with prominent men embracing vulnerability and emotional expression.
- Where
- Globally, with examples from sports, Bollywood, and Hollywood.
- When
- Recent years, with notable examples from the 2022 FIFA World Cup and ongoing discussions in sports and entertainment.
- Why
- To challenge traditional notions of masculinity, promote mental health awareness, and encourage emotional honesty.
Key facts
- Lionel Messi
- Cried after Argentina's World Cup win, citing personal struggles.
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Tears after Portugal's World Cup semi-final defeat.
- Virat Kohli
- Opened up about feeling lonely during career lows.
- Ranveer Singh
- Frequently expresses emotions publicly, including tears.
- Allu Arjun
- Often tearful while thanking fans or discussing family.
- Shabbir Ali
- Believes vulnerability should translate into resilience.
- Pullela Gopichand
- Views emotions as a natural part of sport.
- Abhishek Banerjee
- Argues that crying is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Priyanka Sarkar
- Sports psychologist advocating for emotional expression in men.
Quotes
Abhishek Banerjee
Actor and casting director
“Men not crying is a sign of weakness, not strength. You cry when you’re in touch with your emotions and your vulnerability. We’re taught to ‘man up’ and show strength, but strength or bravery without emotions is just an extension of the male ego, and that can be disastrous.”
deccanchronicle.com
“Suppressing sadness and disappointment doesn’t make them disappear. Over time, it can contribute to emotional exhaustion, anxiety and depression. Emotional strength isn’t about never crying; it’s about recognising, regulating and expressing emotions in healthy ways.”
deccanchronicle.com
Pullela Gopichand
Former All England champion and national badminton coach
“Being emotional, being vulnerable and expressing your emotions is a strength. What matters is that you have given your hundred per cent in the pursuit of your goal.”
deccanchronicle.com
“Be strong. There is no use in crying. Work hard, learn from setbacks and focus on the next match or tournament.”
deccanchronicle.com
Sources
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