The reel side of women

Three female actors in the age group of 20, 30 and 40 pick their favourite women-centric films in Bollywood.

Three female actors in the age group of 20, 30 and 40 pick their favourite women-centric films in Bollywood

Kangna Ranaut, 23

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Tanu Weds Manu, 2011:

My character Tanu is a new-age woman who speaks her mind, rides a bike in a salwar-kameez and wants to marry a man against her parents’ will. She lives life by her own rules and does what she wants to do.

Mother India, 1957:

Nargis ji’s performance was reflective of idol Durga and no one has been able to repeat that till date. It went very well with Indian sentiments.

ChaalBaaz, 1989:

Despite biggies like Sunny Deol and Rajinikanth, Sridevi stood out in the film. Her double roles of a suppressed Anju and a fearless Manju portrayed Indian woman’s dual side.

Chitrangada Singh, 34

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi , 2003:
My character Geeta in the film followed her heart without being selfish or wrong. She took courage in being honest. She chose to live in a village with a man she loved but by her own principles.
Umrao Jaan, 1981:
Rekha’s character of a courtesan was progressive, independent and strong-willed. Despite an unconventional childhood and lost love, she remains hopeful.
Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, 1994:
Madhuri Dixit’s role Nisha was of a very playful saali (sister-in-law). It was unlike the coy family girl of the time...a step forward in the 90s.

Madhuri Dixit, 43

Mrityudand, 1997:
My role in Mrityudand was path-breaking. My character Ketki was a strong woman, who fought and defeated the forces of oppression and male domination, which are so common in our society.
Mughal-e-Azam, 1960:
It is Madhubala’s most splendid performance. Who can forget her strong portrayal of Anarkali who could go to any extent for her love.
Pakeezah, 1972:
Sahibjaan, the character of the Lucknawi tawaif essayed by Meena Kumari was the most touching female character on Indian celluloid. She played a good-natured woman of substance.