Feminism is defined as a range of social movements, Political movements and ideologies that aim to define and establish the political, economic, personal and social equality of Sexes.
In the early days Bollywood was untouched with the meaning of feminism so movies like Ghar toh Aisa showed feminism to not be suitable for the Indian culture and value system of the family. Women were often positioned as ones responsible for splitting up the family as well as teaching the same to others as well.
In 2000’s mainstream cinema moved on to interpret the ladies in the film as the gender that is always in trouble and distress and they have to counter attack the Villain in order show them that women can also be strong.
The Indian cinema has constantly evolved from the 90’s to the present day. Films like Piku (2015), Queen (2014), Margarita with the straw (2014) and Anarkali of Arah (2017) present a more women friendly scenario which is positive towards promotion of feminism. In movies like Dil Dhakhne do (2015) shows male characters as progressive and supportive to feminism.
India is one country which is strictly a male dominated where women really need to work hard to get their voices heard in the society. Bollywood stars have become prominent personalities in the industry thus the audience listens to all they want to say to them.
Bollywood movies are a mirror image of the society and culture. By doing this the film makers would make movies which earn profits at the box- office. In many cinematic pieces there is a wrong and prejudice portrayal of female characters. This is done in various manners like male gaze, less screen time and representation along with fewer dialogues of the female lead in the film.
In my opinion in order to give the audience to give a true sense of feminism we have stopped positioning the women in films and Tv shows a use and throw material. We should teach our loyal viewers that Feminist women don’t need exhibit the qualities of men in order to fight against injustice or prove their self worth to the culture who thinks men are superior. It is high time that films also start showcasing that the protagonist can be a woman and the makers can rely on them to uplift the film in every aspect
