In a recent interview, Janhvi Kapoor spoke about how she often enjoys playing roles where she has to keep her chin down in front of her male co-star.
She acknowledged that, coming from a film lineage, she has the privilege to choose the type of films she wants to do.
While she loves taking on character-driven films like Good Luck Jerry, Gunjan Saxena, and Mili, she also admitted that she enjoys doing commercial films where she has to “look down” when the male protagonist speaks and remain on the sidelines.
Janhvi mostly plays such characters in South Indian films, like Devara.
This sparked discussions among fans, with many questioning whether Janhvi supports the sexist portrayals often seen in some South Indian films.
While she chooses female-led films in Bollywood, why does she conform to traditional gender roles in the South Indian industry?
Later in the interview, when asked about something she never wants to hear, she replied that nothing affects her anymore, as she has developed thick skin.
She further stated that, as a woman in the industry, she believes in going with the flow, following the rules laid out, and manoeuvring her way through it rather than questioning things.
She even advised against questioning anyone, suggesting that people should simply focus on their work.
Since this conversation took place on an all-women panel meant to discuss women’s empowerment, many were disappointed by her remarks.
While she is entitled to her opinion, it is crucial to recognize that women in the Indian film industry need to assert themselves, speak up, and make their voices heard.
For too long, they have followed the rules. For too long, they have remained silent.
Now is the time to challenge the norms, stand up for themselves, and uplift the women around them.
