" When a boy comes home late from college, nobody questions him. But if a girl is late by even half an hour, the mother asks, ‘Kahan thi?’ Why are you not asking the boy where he was? "
- Mahima Chaudhry

The quote highlights a stark disparity in how society reacts when boys and girls return home late from college or other activities. It points out that while parents often overlook a boy's tardiness without questioning, they are quick to interrogate their daughter about her whereabouts if she arrives even half an hour later than expected. This observation underscores the different standards and expectations imposed on young men and women based on gender.

Delving deeper into this quote reveals broader societal issues regarding gender inequality and double standards. The implication is that girls face a greater burden of scrutiny and are held to stricter behavioral norms, which can be attributed to long-standing patriarchal attitudes. This differential treatment not only affects the freedom and autonomy of young women but also perpetuates a culture where their actions are constantly under suspicion unless they conform to predetermined expectations. Such societal dynamics can have profound impacts on self-esteem and personal development, often leading young girls to feel constrained and judged for choices that boys experience little to no scrutiny over.

Mahima Chaudhry is the author of this insightful quote. She is an Indian actress known for her roles in television and film. Through her work and public statements, she has been vocal about issues related to women's rights and gender equality, often drawing attention to the subtle yet significant ways in which societal biases manifest in everyday life.