Mumbai, March 8: International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is not just a festival but also an opportunity to honor women who have brought about change in society through their courage, hard work, and dreams. Over time, cinema has reflected society, and in recent years, Bollywood has produced numerous films showcasing the stories of real-life women. These narratives have moved and inspired audiences. Several actresses have portrayed characters that bring to life the struggles and resilience of real women.
Vidya Balan is one such prominent actress. In the acclaimed film “The Dirty Picture,” she played a character inspired by the famous South Indian actress Silk Smitha. The film tells the story of a woman who, despite societal criticism and challenges, carves out a name for herself in the film industry. Vidya Balan’s bold and powerful performance received widespread acclaim. Additionally, she portrayed the renowned mathematician Shakuntala Devi in the film of the same name, showcasing how a woman from a humble background rises to global fame through her talent.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas starred in the inspirational sports film “Mary Kom,” which became popular among audiences. In this film, she played the role of Olympic medalist boxer Mary Kom, depicting how a girl from a small village in Manipur becomes a world-class athlete through hard work and determination.
Alia Bhatt has also delivered memorable performances in two films based on real events. In “Raazi,” she played an Indian spy who marries into a Pakistani military family during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. In “Gangubai Kathiawadi,” she brought to life the story of Gangubai, a woman from Mumbai’s Kamathipura area who later advocated for women’s rights and sought to bring about societal change.
New-generation actresses have also played a significant role in bringing such inspiring stories to the screen. Janhvi Kapoor portrayed Indian Air Force pilot Gunjan Saxena in “Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl.” The film illustrates how Gunjan faced societal perceptions and numerous challenges while flying during the Kargil War, becoming a symbol of courage for her country.
Sonam Kapoor’s portrayal of air hostess Neerja Bhanot in the film “Neerja” exemplifies bravery. Neerja sacrificed her life to save passengers during a plane hijacking, and her heroism continues to inspire many.
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PK/Piyush
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