Introduction “Pad Man” is a biographical comedy-drama film that tells the inspiring story of Arunachalam Muruganantham, who is portrayed by Akshay Kumar as Lakshmikant “Lakshmi” Chauhan. The film addresses the issue of menstrual hygiene in rural India and highlights the social stigma surrounding menstruation.
Plot Summary The story begins with Lakshmi’s marriage to Gayatri, played by Radhika Apte. Lakshmi is deeply in love with his wife and wants to ensure her comfort during her menstrual periods. However, he discovers that Gayatri uses unhygienic rags due to the high cost of sanitary pads. Determined to help her, Lakshmi buys sanitary pads but is disheartened when Gayatri insists on returning them because they are too expensive.
Undeterred, Lakshmi attempts to create a better alternative using cotton and cloth, but his initial efforts fail. He faces ridicule from his community for his involvement in what is considered a taboo subject. After several humiliating experiences, including testing his homemade pads on himself, he decides to educate himself about menstrual hygiene and pad-making.
Lakshmi learns about the materials used in sanitary pads and eventually designs a low-cost sanitary pad-making machine. With the help of Pari Walia, an MBA student played by Sonam Kapoor, he showcases his invention at an innovation fair in Delhi where it receives recognition as a significant innovation.
Despite facing backlash from his village for challenging societal norms, Lakshmi perseveres. He travels across rural India to set up small pad-making factories that provide employment for women while supplying affordable sanitary pads. His journey culminates in a speech at the United Nations and receiving the Padma Shri award for his contributions to women’s health.
The film concludes with Lakshmi reconciling with Gayatri and achieving success in his mission to improve menstrual hygiene for women across India.
Conclusion “Pad Man” not only entertains but also serves as an important commentary on menstruation and women’s health issues in society, aiming to break down stigmas associated with menstruation.
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