Hansal Mehta Advocates for Increased Recognition and Roles for Women in Hindi Cinema

Mumbai, March 15 (NationPress) Renowned filmmaker Hansal Mehta has recently tackled the ongoing conversation about gender representation in Hindi cinema.

His previous post highlighted the emergence of new male actors and the necessity for more daring casting decisions, which led to numerous responses asking, "What about the female actors?" Mehta clarified that his objective was never to diminish women's contributions but to underscore the importance of talent, investment, and belief in actors who convey depth and authenticity on screen—irrespective of their gender.

Mehta listed several female actors who have made a significant impact in recent years with their performances. He stressed that this list is not focused on box office performance or social media popularity but rather on talent, presence, and the capacity to succeed in an industry that has historically favored glamour over depth.

In his comprehensive note, he stated, “This is not an exhaustive or definitive list, but rather a small selection of female actors who have recently made a mark through their work. This isn’t about box office figures, social media clout, or PR-driven fame. It’s about talent, presence, and the ability to navigate a system that still favors glamour over substance. A disclaimer before the list: There may be omissions and inaccuracies. This is just a starting point.”

Regarding Triptii Dimri, Hansal remarked, "From an indie favorite to a mainstream star—Triptii has achieved this on her own terms. Films like Bulbbul and Qala showcased her ability to carry a film, while Animal proved she can hold her own in a male-dominated blockbuster. She possesses the potential to break out similarly to how Kangana Ranaut did in her early career—an actress so captivating that she unsettles insecure male co-stars. What she needs now is opportunity and filmmakers who support her without relying on male stars.”

“Although Sharvari Wagh may not yet boast the filmography of her peers, she possesses an effortless screen presence—a quality that cannot be fabricated. Whether it’s the quiet intensity she displayed in Maharaj or the spark she exhibited in her debut, she feels poised to become a major star. Her future choices will determine that,” he added.

“Ananya Panday is evolving. With Kho Gaye Hum Kahaan and CTRL, she showcased her ability to shed the façade and present something genuine on screen. She has the potential to transition from a mainstream star to a nuanced actor—if she is provided with the right scripts and can avoid being engulfed by the trappings of her upbringing. She stands at a crossroads, and I hope she opts for risk rather than comfort,” Mehta stated.

His list also featured actresses Medha Shankar, Pratibha Ranta, Preeti Panigrahi, and Kani Kusruti.

Mehta further commented, “The Larger Problem: Where Are the Female-Driven Stories? While these women have delivered remarkable performances, the more significant issue persists—where are the narratives centering on women? Even when women secure lead roles, the industry continues to question their “box-office viability.” This mindset is outdated, lazy, and frankly, disrespectful to an audience that consistently supports well-crafted female-led films.”

“Some of the finest actors of our time—Tabu, Vidya Balan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Rani Mukerji, Konkona Sen Sharma—continue to provide performances that are nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, they do not receive nearly as many compelling scripts as their male counterparts. Their filmographies should be rich with complex characters, but they are often called upon only when a film requires a strong female lead—while their male counterparts enjoy entire narratives built around them,” Hansal elaborated.