Mumbai’s cinematic landscape has undergone a seismic shift since 2014, mirroring India’s broader push for women’s empowerment. Coinciding with landmark initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao launched in 2015, Bollywood has pivoted from damsels in distress to fierce protagonists who challenge societal norms and drive narratives of strength and resilience.
Rani Mukerji’s Mardaani franchise exemplifies this transformation. Released in 2014, the first installment cast her as the indomitable cop Shivani Shivaji Roy, battling human trafficking and gender-based crimes with unyielding grit. Directed by Gopi Puthran, the film shattered stereotypes of male-dominated action genres, with Mukerji’s portrayal blending raw emotion, physical prowess, and feminist fervor. The upcoming third part promises to continue this legacy, captivating audiences once more.
In 2018, Mukerji revisited empowerment through Hichki, embodying Naina Mathur, a teacher grappling with Tourette syndrome. Rejected by 18 schools, Naina’s unshakeable passion for education turns underprivileged students’ lives around. Siddharth P. Malhotra’s direction infused comedy and drama to spotlight mental health struggles often dismissed lightly, underscoring how perseverance propels women beyond barriers.
Alia Bhatt’s Dear Zindagi (2016) delved into mental well-being, with her character Kaira navigating life’s anxieties under the guidance of Shah Rukh Khan’s therapist. Gauri Shinde’s heartfelt direction emphasized self-discovery and emotional independence, resonating deeply with women seeking balance in a chaotic world.
Raazi (2018), helmed by Meghna Gulzar, saw Bhatt as Sehmat, a spy infiltrating Pakistan during the 1971 war. This thriller blended patriotism with a woman’s intellectual courage, supported by strong performances from Vicky Kaushal and Jaideep Ahlawat, proving female leads can anchor high-stakes espionage tales.
Anubhav Sinha’s Thappad (2020) confronted domestic violence head-on through Taapsee Pannu’s Amrita, a homemaker who reclaims her dignity after a single slap. The film weaves multiple women’s stories, igniting conversations on consent, self-respect, and breaking free from toxic norms.
The Kerala Story (2023), directed by Sudipto Sen, chronicles Shalini (Adah Sharma)’s harrowing journey from a nursing student ensnared by radicals to a survivor fighting for identity in foreign lands. Alongside her friends, her tale exposes radicalization’s dangers while celebrating unyielding spirit.
These films, released post-2014, have not just entertained but educated, aligning with governmental strides toward gender parity. Bollywood’s new heroines are redefining power, inspiring millions to voice their truths and forge their paths.