Challenging the Portrayal of ‘Modern’ Women
Celebrated lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has ignited a discourse on the representation of female empowerment in Indian cinema, specifically targeting Yash Chopra’s 2012 romantic drama, “Jab Tak Hai Jaan.” Akhtar’s critique centers on a particular dialogue in the film, which he contends perpetuates a superficial understanding of what constitutes an empowered woman.
A Dialogue Under Scrutiny
During a recent appearance on We Are Yuvaa’s show “Be A Man, Yaar!”, Akhtar dissected a line delivered by one of the film’s female leads, wherein she proclaims her intention to sleep with men of all nationalities before marriage. Akhtar questioned the relevance of this statement to the character’s empowerment, asserting that it’s an unnecessary exaggeration and a misguided attempt to portray a “modern” woman.
Exaggeration vs. Authenticity
Akhtar emphasized that true empowerment doesn’t necessitate such extreme declarations. He argued that filmmakers often resort to hyperbole when attempting to depict empowered women, ultimately undermining the authenticity of their characters. He further noted that the industry’s understanding of modern Indian women remains muddled, leading to misrepresentations on screen.
Evolving Representations: A Glimmer of Hope?
While Akhtar’s critique highlights a problematic trend in Bollywood, he acknowledged positive strides in the portrayal of modern women in films like Zoya Akhtar’s “Luck By Chance,” “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” and “Dil Dhadakne Do.” This suggests a gradual shift towards more nuanced and realistic portrayals of female empowerment in Indian cinema.
Roshan Kumar Sahoo is a multifaceted journalist with expertise in entertainment-related news, sports , tech, and international relations. His ability to navigate these diverse fields allows him to provide readers with a rich blend of content, from the latest entertainment buzz to cutting-edge sports technology and insightful analysis of global affairs. Roshan’s writing is characterized by its depth, accuracy, and engaging style, making him a trusted voice across multiple domains.
