Originally posted by: return_to_hades
I can see where Shabana is coming from. Bollywood has been a typically male dominated industry. The big marquee star has always been the male. Even though we have had some incredible female stars they either had to play second fiddle to men or have significant roles for men in the movie. Throughout the history of Bollywood, actresses had to be conscious of not being too big ' or the male ego of the industry would shut them out.
Vidya Balan's feat in delivering four hits is something exceptionally rare. She has delivered four films where the woman is the star, where the men have to support the leading lady. To add to that none of her films were confined to art house obscurity ' the masses saw them and loved them as well as Vidya.
It could mean that Vidya is a game changer and has changed the rules for women in Bollywood ' or that she is lucky to have gotten away with four female protagonist films. As a result she faces a choice ' tone back and avoid the risks or continue being a trailblazer. Personally, I think she should continue taking strong female roles as she has. It is about time that the woman in Bollywood is more than a romantic pairing. It is risky because barring Aamir Khan all the male 'stars' have a 'star ego', I don't see many of them being willing to support a female protagonist. Vidya's male co starrers have usually been the not as 'starry' as others male leads. However, I think the risk is worth it. No one should have to undermine their talent because others are egotistical. My only caution would be ' be open to non lead roles as well. Sometimes even minor characters can be pivotal roles.
Someday I'd like to see Bollywood have movies like The Help, Fried Green Tomatoes, Steel Magnolias more often where ensemble female casts make popular successful movies.
Cricket
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