The majority of Bollywood films focus on love stories. Even so, they tend to focus more on the hero than the female protagonist, who serves mostly as arm candy for the hero. When a film emphasizes the heroine or devotes more screen time to pleasant things like female friendships, it is easy to label it as a chick flick.
Several female-centric Bollywood films have gained popularity during the last decade. It’s a refreshing difference from the times when women were largely cast as arm candy. As we enter a new decade, let’s take a look back at all of the women-centered films that have had a significant impact on society and the industry.
Here is a list of some of the best female-centric Bollywood films:
Queen
Kangana Ranaut’s film was solely responsible for making solo honeymoons fashionable. Her role in the film evolves from a quiet woman to a confident, forceful one. Watch it not just for the chuckles, but also for the various life lessons.
Available on Youtube, Netflix, and Voot.
Astitva
Astitva, directed by Mahesh Manjrekar highlights Indian society’s masculine chauvinist culture. It brings to light topics such as extramarital affairs and spousal abuse that are prevalent in society but go unnoticed.This film is about a woman, Aditi Shrikant Pandit, played by Tabu, who is striving to discover her own identity outside of her marriage, and she eventually goes away from her husband and son, aided by her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Namrata Shirodkar, who also quits her chauvinist lover.
Available on Amazon Prime Video and Youtube.
Pink
This film was notable for popularising the phrase “no means no.” Although there isn’t much to the courtroom drama, it does raise important themes about consent and sexual assault. It’s an engrossing film, especially in this day and age of #MeToo.
Available on Disney +Hotstar and Netflix.
No One Killed Jesica
The film is based on the real story of Jessica Lal’s murder. It tells the story of Jessica’s elder sister, Sabrina Lal, played by Vidya Balan, who confronts the affluent and powerful guy who shot her sister. Rani Mukerji plays a grizzled journalist who assists Vidya Balan in her fight against all obstacles. The movie demonstrates that even a regular woman can overcome adversity and strive for justice.
Available on Netflix
Conclusion
For decades, Hindi cinema has served as a mirror, reflecting the periods and events that the country has faced. Women have come a long way in our movies, from being decorative objects, if not victims or martyrs, to being a formidable force.
Author- Richa Tiwari
