In recent years, Bollywood has seen a remarkable shift with an increasing number of women-centric movies challenging the traditional norms of Indian cinema. Historically the industry has been conquered by male-driven narratives, strengthening gender stereotypes where female characters often played secondary roles. However, the rise of feminist activities and societal improvement in India has evoked a change with more films picturing women as independent and multi-dimensional individuals. This shift reflects the evolving perspectives on gender roles in Indian society as well as a growing audience that is ready to embrace these new stories.
For decades, Indian cinema reflected the patriarchal values which are dominant in society where women were primarily portrayed as mothers, daughters or love appeals. This history began to change with the birth of movies like “Kahaani” (2012), where Vidya Balan portrayed a strong independent woman challenging the system or “Queen” (2014), which glorified a woman’s journey of self-discovery. These films along with others have questioned the traditional stereotypes that women in India face, that they must serve societal expectations to be ‘respected.’
This rise of women-centric films is a byproduct of the more expansive feminist movement in India which has accumulated speed in the last decade. Feminism supports equal rights and opportunities for women which has found a voice in Bollywood through powerful storytelling.It hits a chord with the younger, forward-thinking crowd who view these movies as reflection of their everyday lives and hopes for the future. The characters in these films often tackle issues such as independence, ambition and identity breaking the restraints of patriarchy in both subtle and open ways.
Movies like “Thappad” (2020), which addresses domestic violence or “Gangubai Kathiawadi” (2022), which explores the resilience of a woman in a male-dominated society have struck a chord with audiences. These films aren’t just commercially successful, they are critically acclaimed as well, showing that women-centric stories are not niche but have mainstream appeal.
An excellent example of this movement’s result is the recent recommendation of “Laapata Ladies” as India’s official entry for the Oscars. Directed by Kiran Rao, the film deals with the disappearance of two women in rural India shining a light on women’s agency and their fight against societal restrictions. This recognition highlights Bollywood’s growing admiration for stories that place women at the centre of the narrative.
Behind this movement, women filmmakers, writers and actors have played key roles in transforming Bollywood’s storytelling. Creators like Zoya Akhtar, Gauri Shinde and Alankrita Shrivastava have been an instrument in crafting subtle and powerful women characters. At the same time actors like Vidya Balan, Taapsee Pannu and Alia Bhatt have carried these characters to life and inspiring audiences nationwide.
The rise of women-centric movies is not just a trend, it is a reflection of changing societal values, the influence of feminism and the demand for authentic female voices in cinema. With the success of these films and the contributions of women in the industry, Bollywood is experiencing a welcome transformation, one that is here to stay.