Pad Man title song: Busts sexist, linguistic myths in cheeky, entertaining manner

"Tu mard hai na [Aren't you a man]?" says an incredulous character in the Pad Man title song to Lakshmikant Chauhan (Akshay Kumar), who replies, "Ek aurat ki hifaazat karne mein nakamyab insaan apne aap ko mard kaise keh sakta hai [How can someone who fails to protect a woman call himself a man]?"

This exchange defines the story of Pad Man. It not only reflects the sexist mindset of the man asking Chauhan the question but also testifies to the fact that Chauhan is chasing a cause and not a macho ideal. Lyricist Kausar Munir busts all such macho myths with a cheeky but entertaining song.

The title song dwarfs all the high-flying superheroes and also delivers a slap to the chauvinistic minds who believe it is not manly for a man to talk about or trade in sanitary pads. The life and times of Arunachalam Muruganantham, on whom the film is based, are reflected in the song. Director R Balki has set the story in the Hindi heartland, probably in Madhya Pradesh, as seen from the visuals.

Lakshmikant Chauhan not only trades in sanitary napkins, but, as seen from the visuals, is also a feminist’s delight. He not only tries out a pad himself but does all the household chores that are usually seen to be the woman's preserve. Munir’s lyrics break all gender stereotypes.

Apart from mocking sexist mindsets, the song busts the myth that to be successful you need to be proficient in English. It indirectly promotes the ‘Make In India’ campaign and slams those who are trying to milk India’s poverty for intenational gains.

Akshay Kumar displays an unflinching attitude, backed by an almost goofy sense of innocence and humour, as seen from him cheering with a thumbs up while the rest are holding their wine glasses. There is a slight effeminate manner to the character and one must salute the star for caring two hoots about how this will affect his action star and romantic hero image.

Munir has penned a cheeky and entertaining song to introduce the character of Chauhan and the film's title, and it is backed by rousing music by Amit Trivedi. Like Akshay Kumar, singer Mika Singh, too, finds himself in uncharted territory crooning a song that one usually doesn’t associate him with. The Punjabi singer is known more for his high-octane 'item' numbers, many of which require him to match the swag of the male character. But Mika Singh leaves all inhibition behind and chips in with an energetic, unapologetic performance. 

The title song of Pad Man sets the right note, one than can be enjoyed by the family, and especially by the feminists. Watch the song below. 

Pad Man is set to be released on 26 January 2018, when it will clash with Neeraj Pandey's Aiyaary. Click here to predict Pad Man's box-office performance.