Bollywood heroines - actresses or glam dolls?

Actresses in Bollywood are given step motherly treatment in our industry; there is nothing new in this statement. Often, they are just deemed fit to add glamour to the films, dance around the trees and play the hero’s love interest. It is very rare to see a leading actress play a pivotal role in a commercial Hindi film. They all wait for an author packed role from a critically acclaimed director so that they can display their acting prowess to the world.

Points:

1. In the old era, things were different. Actresses like MADHUBALA, MEENA KUMARI, NUTAN, NARGIS, SHARMILA TAGORE, MUMTAZ, etc were perfect examples of Beauty with Talent.

2. Other Actresses, who made their contributions to films felt, were HEMA MALINI and REKHA.

3. Actresses like PARVEEN BABI and ZEENAT AMAN are today remembered for their bold persona and not their Acting Skills, which is saddening.

4. Things got even worse when the contributions of the Leading ladies got even less and they were reduced to mere props in the films.

5. There was a time when actresses used to be pivotal part of the script and were even paid more than the male actors. Example: SRIDEVI, who went on to do powerful roles in commercial films.

6. MADHURI was always known more for her dance numbers than her acting ability. She too needed a film like Mrityudand to let the critics know that she CAN act. She went on to do churn other blockbusters like Devdas and Hum Aapke Hain Kaun?

7. KAJOL is one actress who always did very powerful roles in most of her films like Baazigar, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Fanaa, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, My Name Is Khan, etc.

8. JUHI CHAWLA, such an amazing actress, was only restricted to portray chirpy roles of actors’ love interest and never got her due. Her talent is untapped. An offbeat film like I AM got her recognition and she was awarded with Best Actress Awards at International Events.

9. AISHWARIYA too is still known for her Blue eyes than for her brilliant performances in Taal, Devdas and HDDCS.

10. KAREENA somehow managed to give a blockbuster with Jab We Met, where she was clearly the main lead.

11. PRIYANKA, who did several candy floss romantic films with so many actors, got her due recognition with FASHION. But again she needed an author backed role to achieve it.

12. KATRINA KAIF is one of the top female stars today. But can we call her an Actress?

13. VIDYA BALAN is doing interesting films and they are turning out to be big hits like Paa and Ishqiya, which gives us the ray of hope that the situation wil change.

What are your thoughts on it and is our industry really Male Dominated?? Or are the actresses in today’s time Talent- Less?? Do post ur views.

Guys please try and get the relevance of the article. Don’t end up saying that I missed out on this actress and blah blah. PLEASE