From Rubina Dilaik to Mona Singh: TV actresses who BROKE the 'typical bahu mold' & took unconventional roles

For decades, the Indian TV 'bahu': the dutiful, traditional daughter-in-law, has been a staple character, often confined to predictable storylines revolving around sacrifice and family drama. But a new wave of actresses has challenged this cliché by embracing roles that are far from typical, portraying women who are fierce, complex, and unapologetically different. Here are six such actresses who have redefined the portrayal of women on television through their unforgettable characters.

Rubina Dilaik:

Rubina Dilaik took on the groundbreaking role of Soumya, a transgender woman, in Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki. Her portrayal sensitively brought to light issues of gender identity and acceptance rarely explored on mainstream television, pushing boundaries and fostering awareness in the process.

Jennifer Winget:

Jennifer Winget made waves with her role as Maya Mehrotra in Beyhadh, where she played a dark, intense character driven by obsession and vengeance. Unlike the usual gentle bahu, Maya’s psychological depth and fierce personality broke new ground, earning Jennifer critical praise and a devoted fanbase for her daring performance.

Kavita Kaushik:

Known for her portrayal of Chandramukhi Chautala in the comedy series F.I.R., Kavita Kaushik brought to life a tough, witty police officer with a distinct Haryanvi flair. Her character, brimming with confidence and humor, was a refreshing alternative to the submissive bahu trope and gained immense popularity for its boldness.

Mona Singh:

Mona Singh’s breakthrough role as Jassi in Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin was a landmark in Indian TV history. Playing a simple, bespectacled girl who defies conventional beauty standards, Jassi’s journey resonated with many viewers and challenged the idea that female characters must conform to glamorous ideals to be relatable or successful.

Ridhima Pandit:

Riddhima Pandit’s portrayal of Rajni, a humanoid robot created to be the ideal daughter-in-law in Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant, was a clever satire on societal expectations placed on women. With a perfect blend of humor and heart, her character highlighted the unrealistic demands on bahus, using science fiction to question tradition in a lighthearted yet impactful way.

Sai Deodhar:

Sai Deodhar’s role as Flight Lieutenant Monica Singh Kochar in Saara Akaash was a trailblazer for women on television. Playing a strong and competent officer in the Indian Air Force, she broke stereotypes by showing women as authoritative professionals, emphasizing strength and ambition beyond the domestic sphere.

By stepping beyond the limits of tradition, these actresses haven’t just entertained; they’ve sparked conversations, challenged norms, and reimagined what women on Indian television can represent. Their bold choices have opened the door for richer, more diverse storytelling where female characters are no longer defined by the household alone, but by ambition, complexity, and unapologetic individuality. As television continues to evolve, it's performances like these that will continue to set new standards and inspire generations to come.