Kangana Ranaut stated that the rise of women-led films in Bollywood is a culmination of efforts spanning generations. Long before such stories became part of mainstream cinema, Ranaut was one of the few actors championing projects centred on female characters. Her filmography, which includes titles such as Fashion, Queen, Tanu Weds Manu Returns, and Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, underscores her commitment to narratives focused on women.

In a recent interview with India Today, Ranaut reflected on the industry’s transformation regarding women-led cinema. She noted that in the past, such films were often viewed as risky ventures at the box office. However, she emphasised that this change is not attributable to a single individual; rather, it is the result of collective contributions from numerous women throughout film history.

Recognition of Past Contributions

When discussing her feelings about the growing prevalence of women-centric films, Ranaut acknowledged the broader effort behind this shift. “Yes, and not just me,” she said. She articulated the importance of crediting the legacy of women in cinema, mentioning iconic figures such as Meena Kumari, Madhubala, and Sridevi, among others. According to Ranaut, the industry’s progress has consistently been influenced by women’s contributions, many of which have gone unrecognised.

Ranaut pointed out that even seemingly minor contributions can have significant impacts. She recalled how actress Poonam Dhillon played a vital role in introducing vanity vans for actresses, alleviating previous challenges faced by women regarding basic privacy and comfort during film shoots. Such historical context underscores the ongoing efforts made by women to enhance working conditions within the industry.

The actor mentioned that every generation has featured women advocating for better recognition and working conditions, illustrating the cumulative nature of these efforts. She cited legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar as an example of someone who fought tirelessly for singers to receive proper acknowledgment, reaffirming that each woman has made her unique contribution to the cause.

Continuing the Fight for Equality

Ranaut concluded by stating that her personal advocacy for pay equality and women-led films is part of a broader movement that continues to advance. She highlighted that progress does not result from any single person’s actions. Instead, it is a collective journey where one individual may spark a change, but many others help to carry it forward.

Through her body of work, Ranaut has consistently championed stronger and more diverse roles for women in cinema. She expressed her belief that while significant strides have been made, the journey towards achieving full equality in the industry is ongoing. The actor’s upcoming project, Bharat Bhagya Viddhaata, is slated for release on June 12, further underscoring her commitment to promoting women-centric narratives.

As the discussion around women in cinema continues to evolve, Ranaut remains a prominent voice in advocating for the representation and empowerment of women both on and off screen. Her reflections serve as a reminder of the collaborative effort required to bring about lasting change in the industry.

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