Finally, International Women's Day is upon us. The day, March 8, is celebrated worldwide to honour the contributions of women in every field. When it comes to Bollywood movies, over the past few years, filmmakers have been focusing more on bringing women empowering stories from all corners of India to the big screen. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, here’s a look at five Bollywood movies that not only took social media by storm but also left the critics in awe.
Raazi: One of Alia Bhatt’s first empowering movies, directed by Meghna Gulzar, Raazi was released in 2018. Co-starring Vicky Kaushal, the movie followed the journey of Sehmat Khan, who is trained as an undercover Indian RAW agent so that when she gets married into a powerful Pakistani family, she can gather all the information necessary from the enemy nation. Not only Alia’s calm and composed character was lauded by many, her style too became iconic among fashion enthusiasts.
Thappad: Ever since her Bollywood debut, Taapsee Pannu has made it a mission to star in strong female-led stories. Thappad was one of her breakthrough performances, which was lauded by the critics as well the audience. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the 2020 movie shed light on domestic violence and Amrita’s fight to file for a divorce after her loving husband slaps her at a party. Taapsee’s strong-headedness gave women the courage to speak up against the injustice that happens to them on a daily basis.
Kahaani: Vidya Balan is one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood. Ever since her debut, she has made it a point to make her mark as a versatile actor. No matter the role she always shines through in her movies. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, the movie was released in 2012. It follows the journey of a pregnant woman, Vidya Bagchi, who returns to Kolkata from London in the search of her missing husband. Balan’s chilling performance in the movie is one that will be remembered for generations.
English Vinglish: Late actress Sridevi, left a huge legacy behind after her passing. The actress in Gauri Shinde directorial, sent out a message that it is never late to learn new things and experience life no matter how much family holds you back. Inspired by the director’s mother, Sridevi played the role of Shashi in the movie, a housewife who takes it upon herself to learn English when she visits her sister’s place in New York for her niece’s wedding. The late actress’ honest performance till date leaves women misty-eyed
Chhapaak: Yet another Meghna Gulzar directorial that left everyone speechless was Deepika Padukone and Vikrant Massey starrer Chhapaak. Following the journey of a 15-year-old who was a victim of acid attack, just because she rejected advances of an older man, Deepika’s performance left everyone dumbstruck. The movie was inspired by the real-life accident of Laxmi Agarwal, who till date is fighting for justice.
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