Introduction
A dramatic shift in the storytelling style of Indian cinema has occurred recently, with a growing emphasis on strong, autonomous female characters from the directors. By presenting women as strong, capable, and resilient people, these stories that focus on women defy conventional preconceptions. The strength and complexity of women in Indian cinema have been aptly demonstrated in these seven films.
1. Piku (2015):
Shoojit Sircar’s film “Piku” centers on Deepika Padukone’s character, a fiercely independent architect who must balance her career goals with taking care of her aging father. The two characters’ complex relationship is emphasized throughout the movie, which also emphasizes the strength that comes from accountability and love.
2. Queen (2013):
In Vikas Bahl’s “Queen,” Kangana Ranaut plays Rani, a woman who, after her wedding is called off, sets out on a solitary honeymoon adventure. With a portrayal of her maturation and newly discovered strength as she embraces life on her terms, the movie masterfully depicts Rani’s path of self-discovery.
3. Kahaani (2012):
In Sujoy Ghosh’s suspense thriller “Kahaani,” Vidya Balan plays Vidya Bagchi, a pregnant lady in Kolkata who is looking for her husband, who has vanished. The movie not only tells a compelling story but also highlights Vidya Balan’s persona as a resourceful, driven lady who shapes her own path in life.
4. Tumhari Sulu (2017):
In “Tumhari Sulu,” directed by Suresh Triveni, Vidya Balan plays middle-class Sulochana Dubey, who finds her latent gift for radio jockeying. In subverting conventional wisdom, the movie honors the power that arises from following one’s passions and accepting oneself as one truly is.
5. Raazi (2018):
The character Alia Bhatt plays in Meghna Gulzar’s “Raazi” is Sehmat Khan, a young Indian lady who marries a Pakistani military officer in order to work as an undercover spy during the 1971 India-Pakistan conflict. The movie shows Sehmat’s bravery, wit, and selflessness, demonstrating the resilience that women may display in the face of difficulty.
6. English Vinglish (2012):
The protagonist of “English Vinglish” by Gauri Shinde is middle-aged Shashi Godbole, portrayed by Sridevi, who chooses to learn the language in order to win her family’s respect. It’s never too late for personal development and self-discovery, as the movie emphasizes as it examines issues of empowerment and self-worth.
7. Pink (2016):
The legal drama “Pink” by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury tackles the value of consent and how society views women. Among the film’s main protagonists is Taapsee Pannu, a lady who challenges preconceptions, speaks up against injustice, and emphasizes the power of telling the truth.
Conclusion
With these movies, women are portrayed as protagonists with nuance, resiliency, and agency rather than just as supporting roles, marking a dramatic change in Indian cinema. The way strong female characters are portrayed in Indian cinema is expected to change as directors pursue more varied storylines, which will help create a more powerful and inclusive cinematic environment.