Mrunal Thakur to speak in UN Panel on sexual violence today

Mrunal Thakur has worked in Telugu films like Hi Nanna (above) and Bollywood movies like Super 30 and Batla House. (Image via X)

Jersey actress Mrunal Thakur is all set to be a part of a panel discussion on Human Cost of Conflict Related Sexual Violence, taking place today at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The panel aims to explore the global context and impact of sexual violence in conflict zones, including its interlinkage with human trafficking.

Bollywood actor Mrunal Thakur's presence adds weight to the discussion, given her portrayal of the harrowing experiences faced by victims of trafficking in Love Sonia.

Director Tabrez Noorani’s hard-hitting 2018 film Love Sonia was the actress’ debut film in which she played the titular role of Sonia, a village girl who gets trapped in the sex trade. Her critically-appreciated performance did not go unnoticed, and she appeared in a number of films after that including Super 30 and Batla House. At present, she is busy with promotions of her upcoming film Family Star and will therefore attend it virtually.

Expressing her anticipation for the event, Mrunal Thakur remarked, "Being a part of this panel discussion is a profound honour for me. Love Sonia was not just a film; it was a journey into the darkest corners of humanity, shedding light on the unimaginable suffering endured by victims of human trafficking. Through my role, I had the opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of this issue, and it has since become a cause that is incredibly close to my heart. Participating in this panel allows me to lend my voice to the collective effort of raising awareness and advocating for change. It's an opportunity to amplify the voices of those who have been silenced and to stand in solidarity with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence. I am deeply grateful for this platform and eager to contribute to the important conversations that lie ahead.”

Apart from Thakur, some of the other distinguished speakers include Ukranian television host Masha Efrosinina, Afghan politician and women’s rights activist Fawzia Koofi, law professor Cochav Elkayam Levy, human rights advocate Meaza Gebremedhin, and journalist Areig Elhagwill. The event promises to be a platform for robust dialogue and advocacy on a global scale.