Kangana Ranaut says women-oriented cinema is the result of contribution of generations
Kangana Ranaut reflected on the rise of female-centric films in Bollywood and credited generations of female artistes and pioneers for bringing about change in the industry ahead of the release of Bharat Bhagya Vidhaata.
Long before female-led films became a regular feature on Bollywood’s release calendar, Kangana Ranaut was one of the few actors who was consistently doing films driven by female protagonists. From outfit And Queen To Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, Thalaivi, Panga, Dhaakad, Tejas and Emergency, Kangana has built most of her career around women-centric stories.
had an exclusive conversation with India TodayThe actor-politician reflected on how the industry has evolved over the years. While women-centric films were once considered a box office risk, Kangana believes the change was not caused by any one person.
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This change belongs to generations of women
When asked if she felt she had been vindicated as female-centric films became increasingly common today, Kangana was quick to share the credit.
“Yes, and not just me. There are many women who have contributed to this change. We have a remarkable legacy of women in cinema from Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Nargis Dutt, Waheeda Rehman ji, Vyjayanthimala ji, Hema Malini ji, Sridevi ji and Madhuri Dixit,” she said.
The actor emphasized that the progress of the industry has been shaped by the efforts of many women across generations, often through contributions that are not always widely recognized.
Small contributions can make a lasting impact
She recalled, “We often talk about big achievements, but small contributions also matter. For example, today, when I go to my vanity van, I remember the instrumental role Poonam Dhillon played in bringing vanity vans for actresses. Earlier, imagine how difficult it must have been to go behind the bushes for basic things like using the toilet, changing clothes or doing a touch-up under a tree.”
Kangana said that in every generation there are women who fought such battles, which improved working conditions and later gave recognition to those who worked.
She said, “It is impossible to decide who has contributed more because everyone has played a role. Take Lata Mangeshkar ji for example. She fought for singers to get due recognition and credit. Every woman has made a larger-than-life contribution in her own way.”
The journey toward equality is still evolving
emergency The actor said his own efforts towards pay equality and female-oriented cinema are part of a much larger movement that is constantly evolving.
“In that journey, our contribution – be it towards pay equality or female-led cinema – will also find its place. But no change happens because of one person alone. Someone sparks the movement, others take it forward, and the journey continues. And it still continues,” Kangana concluded.
Over the years, Kangana has headlined several female-centric films and has consistently advocated for strong roles for women in mainstream cinema. she will be seen next time india destiny makerWhich is going to be released on June 12.