The big screen has a unique ability to stir the emotions and thought processes of audiences. In this article, we will explore some of the top Bollywood Films That Broke Stereotypes.
Several Directors have used this opportunity to present diverse perspectives in front of the people. Further, they have taken the initiative to question the wrong preconceptions in society.
Here we have listed the 6 Bollywood Films That Broke Stereotypes that you must watch to understand our society and its challenges in a better way:
1. Queen (2013)
Any kind of problem in a marriage always comes down to a girl in our society. Even when the alliance is broken before the couple gets married, all sorts of questions are raised about a girl. The pressures have always been ignored by the society as a whole.
But the queen managed to change this Stereotype. In the film, Kangana Ranaut plays the role of a simple bride-to-be Rani, whose wedding is called off. So, she sets out on a trip to Self-discovery popularly referred to as ‘Solo Honeymoon’.
2. Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015)
Let’s face it straight, body Stereotypes still exist in our society. Particularly, the stereotypes are more serious for females who are considered undesirable. Dum Laga Ke Haisha is one such film that targets this stereotype.
Its plot follows a love story between an overweight woman and a conventional-looking man. The film leaves us with an important message that love transcends physical appearances.
It received praise for its simple yet appealing storyline and cast performances that made audiences understand this stereotype in a better way.
3. Neerja (2016)
The common notion of a ‘Hero’ in society is a male. Whether it’s about Films or real life, rarely do people talk about female heroics. But, Neerja is one such film that will make you change that notion right away.
Neerja is a Biographical Film that broke a major gender stereotype. It depicts that there is no gender of heroic actions with the story of a brave flight attendant Neerja Bhanot. During a flight hijack, she saved the lives of several passengers from the hijackers. It highlights the strength and bravery of females.
4. PadMan (2018)
Conversations around Menstrual Hygiene have been a big Taboo in our society. The masses are still not comfortable openly discussing this issue. But, when a mainstream Actor like Akshay Kumar came up with a real-life story around this issue in cinemas it did make a change.
The plot follows the real-life story of a man who gets upset when he sees his wife getting ill by using unhygienic clothes for her menstrual cycle. So, he made a machine for making Sanitary Napkins which he had to deal with a lot of criticism.
Despite this, he continued to advocate his work and raised awareness for it. The film openly challenges the social stigma and myths around this issue.
5. Ki and Ka (2016)
“Men should work and earn while women should manage a home”. This is an orthodox division of responsibilities between men and women that has been a barrier to women’s empowerment.
But, a mainstream film like Ki and Ka challenged these traditionally set gender roles. It showcases a role reversal where the husband takes up the role of a homemaker and the wife works hard to find success in her career. It raises awareness against gender work in society.
6. English Vinglish (2012)
We can’t deny that our society still judges people over their English-speaking skills. If someone can’t speak English, they are made fun of. This important Stereotype was targeted in the film English Vinglish.
In this film, Sridevi plays the role of a woman who has become a subject of fun because cannot speak English. Also, her family often has to look down due to this obsession with English.
Later, she begins to learn English. But, the film focuses on how she sets on a journey to rediscover her self-esteem and identity that is not dependent on knowing a particular language.
Summing up,
Many directors identified the role of Films in society and used it to target crucial Stereotypes that still hold a grip in our society. All the movies listed above have been successful in initiating conversations. Also, it managed to change the mindset of the audience who were able to think about these subjects.
Overall, they did manage to challenge and break Stereotypes to a certain extent. However, we need many more such films that target Stereotypes in our society to make a place for modern thoughts.
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