Pooja Bhatt is reportedly auctioning a role in one of her Hindi language films in a charity auction, in a move to curb violence against women, according to the Scottish circle of Oxfam.
According to Oxfam who is organising the event, the highest bidder in the auction from Scotland is presented with the opportunity to act in the film which will be screened to millions. Oxfam is an international association of 17 organisations networked together in more than 90 countries, addressing various issues regarding human rights.
In a statement issued by Bhatt through Oxfam she said, "I would be delighted to offer a role to the highest bidder in either the film 'Bad', which would be a speaking part...Or they could win a part in my film 'Cabaret', where they will get to participate in an elaborate song sequence complete with colour, dancers and the works".
The 41-year old filmmaker is the eldest daughter of Indian film director Mahesh Bhatt and has directed films like "Tamanna" which talks of female infanticide. She has also acted in a number of films including "Dil Hei Ki Manta Nahi" and "Everybody says I'm fine". Bhatt according to Oxfam plans to travel to Scotland to understand how the country addresses gender violence especially domestic abuse.
According to Oxfam in 2009, there were more than two million incidents of violence against women in India, an increase of 25 percent from that of 2004. Recently, the rape case of a paramedical student and that of five-year old had triggered protests throughout India. According to BBC, a woman is raped every 21 minutes in the country.
According to a statement issued by the charity, "The money raised from auctioning the Bollywood role will be used by Oxfam in India to help eradicate violence against women. The project supports victims to report violence to end impunity and helps them to become financially independent."
