Demand for lead actor will never fade in Bollywood: Supriya Pathak

The common thread that ties films like "Bajirao Mastani", "Neerja" or "Tanu Weds Manu Returns" together is the presence of character actors with strong roles. Veteran actress Supriya Pathak says that while Bollywood is moving away from the clichéd Hindi masala films'and embracing the trend, the need for lead stars will never fade away.

When asked whether nowadays films are not only about leading actors and actress, she said it is "partially" the case.

"Partially yes. Although the need or demand for a lead actor and actress will never fade in the Bollywood film industry, character roles have also become popular and more importantly they are very integral for the script," Supriya told IANS.

While some know her as the jovial Hansa Parekh from the popular TV comedy series "Khichdi", for others she is the headstrong woman of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela".

And after being a part of the industry for over four decades, she says that the wave of change in the industry has seeped in.

"It is great that the industry is open to accepting character roles and moving away from the clichéd Bollywood Hindi masala films," she said.

The actress, who has explored various mediums for entertainment - be it films, theatre or television - shared her views with IANS after attending an event organised by detergent Ariel India on the topic 'Why is laundry only a mother's job?' in Mumbai.

She became a part of the event with her husband and actor Pankaj Kapur.

Talking about the stereotypical perceptions around women in the society, she asserted "Nothing changes overnight and neither will this". "

"But, the process has started and the perception that the responsibility of looking after the household activities is only taken care by the woman is definitely changing, slowly but yes. And this perception change will not only benefit the future of women but for her entire family and in turn the society," said the actress, who was last seen on the silver screen as Kapil Sharma's mother in "Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon".

She also praised the way the issue of "gender inequality" is handled in the "Share the Load" campaign by the brand.

She said: "The whole issue of gender inequality is shown so beautifully and it is so relatable that it made me want to come and talk about it."