August 26 marks Women’s Equality Day around the globe. It’s a day to cheer for the progress of women, their brave struggles, and the huge impact they make in our communities. Lately, we’ve seen a big shift in how women are shown on screen. Actresses are stepping out of old molds. They are no longer just playing the hero’s girlfriend or background characters. Instead, they lead stories as strong, independent women who spark change.
Actresses Demand Their Fair Share
Behind the glamour, many actresses are speaking up about equal pay and fair treatment. Deepika Padukone shared her own story. She fought to get paid as much as her husband, Ranveer Singh, for films. She even turned down roles when her demands were not met. Sonam Kapoor also spoke about the difficulty of standing up against unfairness. She faced many challenges for speaking her mind. Kangana Ranaut believes her male co-stars earn much more than she does. Other stars like Taapsee Pannu, Priyanka Chopra, Konkona Sen Sharma, Tahira Kashyap, and Nushrratt Bharuccha have also openly talked about these equality issues. They are all making sure their voices are heard.
Women Take Charge Behind the Camera
This push for equality isn’t just for actresses in front of the camera. Women directors and producers are also showing their power in the film world. Directors like Zoya Akhtar, Meghna Gulzar, Kiran Rao, Gauri Shinde, and Nandita Das make films where women are the heart of the story. Likewise, famous names such as Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma, Richa Chadha, Kriti Sanon, and Guneet Monga are now producing. They bring fresh and different stories to life.
Films That Champion Women’s Stories
Many movies now celebrate women’s equality and strength. These films give us a peek into different women’s lives and their victories. Here are a few standout examples:
- Kahaani: Vidya Balan plays a woman looking for her missing husband in Kolkata. This film proves women can be incredibly brave even when facing tough situations.
- English Vinglish: Sridevi stars as Shashi, a woman who learns English. She gains back her self-confidence and respect in the process.
- Queen: Kangana Ranaut plays a young woman who travels abroad alone after her heart is broken. The movie shows that women are fully capable of making their own choices.
- Pink: Taapsee Pannu and Amitabh Bachchan’s film makes a clear point: a woman’s consent is key. The message was simple and strong: No means No.
- Lipstick Under My Burkha: This movie follows four women who fight against old-fashioned society for their dreams and freedom. It tells a story about women finding their voice and identity.
- Dangal: This is the inspiring story of the Phogat sisters. They brought fame to their country through wrestling. It’s a shining example of female strength and hard work.
- Thappad: Taapsee Pannu plays a woman who refuses to accept domestic violence. She stands up for women’s rights and dignity.
- Chhapaak: Deepika Padukone plays Malti, a woman who fights for justice and respect after an acid attack.
- Gunjan Saxena – The Kargil Girl: Janhvi Kapoor portrays Gunjan Saxena, the first female combat pilot. The film shows that women can work just as hard as men in any field.
- Sharmaji Ki Beti: This film explores the lives of three women from different age groups. It shows their struggles at work and home, along with their dreams.
- Mrs.: This film tells the story of a newly married woman. She tries to bring change to her home and society, challenging old customs and male-dominated thinking. Another film from last year, ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ also champions women’s equality.