From Laapataa Ladies To Parched, 6 Remarkable Women-Directed Films Tackling Taboos in Bollywood
We love them all!
Cinema has evolved, and the role of women in Bollywood has improved quite a bit over the years. Whether it’s on-screen or behind the camera, women are making a significant impact. There are films and series directed by women like Kiran Rao, Leena Yadav Gauri Shinde and more that break away from traditional Bollywood storytelling, they go beyond the usual portrayal of women in cinema. These women are challenging clichés by making films that show an authentic representation of women and their issues and desires. From the Laapataa Ladies defying norms to the Bombay Begums leading the way, here are some remarkable films and series directed by women that delve into women-centric storytelling and skillfully address societal taboos.
1.Laapataa Ladies: Kiran Rao (2024)
Directed by Kiran Rao, in Laapataa Ladies Deepak Kumar accidentally leaves his bride, Phool Kumari, at the train station after mistaking another woman, Jaya, for her due to identical ghoonghats worn by brides. As the search unfolds, suspicions arise about Pushpa, leading the corrupt cop to unveil the societal norms restraining women, reflecting on society’s shortcomings.
2. English Vinglish: Gauri Shinde (2012)
Directed by Gauri Shinde, English Vinglish marked the comeback of the legendary Sridevi. It beautifully portrays the journey of a middle-aged woman, Shashi, who embarks on a quest for self-discovery and empowerment through learning English. Shinde’s sensitive direction and Sridevi’s poignant performance resonated deeply with audiences, challenging societal norms and celebrating the spirit of womanhood.
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3. Lipstick Under My Burkha: Alankrita Shrivastava (2016)
Alankrita Shrivastava threw the rule book out the window with this one. Set in small-town India, it intertwines the lives of four women from different generations, each grappling with societal expectations and restrictions. It’s a bold, unapologetic take on female desires that had censors reaching for their smelling salts. Shrivastava’s unflinching portrayal of female sexuality and agency challenged prevailing norms and sparked important conversations about women’s rights and freedom.
4. Parched: Leena Yadav (2015)
Directed by Leena Yadav, this visually stunning film delves into the lives of four rural women in Gujarat, India, navigating through oppression, patriarchy, and misogyny. Yadav’s evocative storytelling and sensitive direction shed light on the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and advocate for gender equality. Parched is an authentic portrayal of women’s issues that goes beyond just a cinematic experience!
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5. Bombay Begums: Alankrita Shrivastava And Bornila Chatterjee (2021)
Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava and Bornila Chatterjee, this Netflix series offers a nuanced portrayal of five women from different walks of life, navigating through ambition, love, and power in contemporary Mumbai. Through its diverse ensemble cast and layered storytelling, the series explores complex issues such as workplace discrimination, motherhood, and female solidarity, challenging societal norms and redefining the meaning of success for women in India.
6. Margarita With A Straw: Shonali Bose (2021)
The film Margarita with a Straw, directed by Shonali Bose, follows the journey of Laila, a young woman with cerebral palsy, who navigates the complexities of her disability while exploring her sexuality and pursuing her dreams of independence. Through Bose’s sensitive direction, the film empowers viewers by portraying Laila’s story with authenticity and nuance, challenging societal taboos surrounding disability and sexuality with grace and courage.
From breaking stereotypes to amplifying marginalized voices, these women-directed films have played a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative landscape of Bollywood. As audiences continue to demand diverse and inclusive stories, the future of Indian cinema undoubtedly lies in the hands of visionary women directors who tackle taboo topics and pave the way for a more equitable and empowering cinematic experience.
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