Does Bollywood Objectify Women?

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Time and again when the heinous crime of rape shakes the nation, newspapers are filled with the reports of the blood-chilling incident. There are debates and candle marches in various parts of the country. The public, media, political leaders, celebrities, everyone start giving their opinions on topics even remotely related to the mishap.

And among all these variety of opinions, one that resurfaces again and again is that Bollywood objectifies women. And soon the entire topic of discussion shifts to the bashing of the entertainment industry. So,  DOES BOLLYWOOD OBJECTIFY WOMEN?

Well, there could be mixed response to this question. Ya, it is true that “Mai toh tandoori murgi hun yaar.. gatka le saiyan alcohol se” or “Dekhne me halwa hai… pyaar se paros dungi… tut le zaraa” are  lines which reflect a derogatory portrayal of women. What is saddening is that most of the item girls are successful, talented bollywood acteresses who have proved their mettle in power packed performances. Whatever is portrayed on-screen influences few sections of the audience and becomes the general perception towards women, which is really sad.

It is also true that gone are the days when a movie had a ‘Madhuri’ and a ‘Shri Devi’ as the hero. Today there are hardly one or two movies a year which gives substantial roles to its actress. In most of the movies, the actress just seems to be in to increase the glam quotient or be an arm candy to the hero. Such a waste of talent because even very good actresses find themselves in such characters at some point of their careers.

But on the other hand, the accusation that Bollywood promotes rape because of its song and dance, is a bit too unfair. At the end of the day, what matters for our people in showbiz is entertainment. They sell whatever is in demand. Their foremost purpose is to entertain the audience. To provide value for money. So it is very important that people should also watch a movie just for the entertainment factor and forget about it. Nobody is trying to preach anything through their movies and songs. It is certainly up to the audience, what it picks up. If you really wanna take movies too seriously then take the good bits. 🙂