Action has traditionally been the bastion of male actors. But every once in a while there have been role reversals; with heroines entering the fray and flexing their muscles.
And whenever heroines have performed action on screen (think Fearless Nadia), they have proved that they are more than just sexy seductresses.
In Abbas-Mustan's Players, you are likely see the image of a heroine change radically; for Bipasha Basu and Sonam Kapoor are seen performing risky stunts, giving the heroes a run for their money.
Take a look at some of the popular actresses fetching up as desi Lara Crofts in recent years:
Bipasha Basu in Players
"I love action roles and want to do more. I am fit for it," announced Bipasha, generally seen as a sex symbol.
In the Hollywood film Singularity, she rode virile horses as a Maratha warrior. But that's for later. For now, you can catch Bipasha on bikes and bikini, in Players.
Image: Bipasha Basu in Players
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She trained in pilates (a rigorous fitness regime) for this role. "I have kicked some bad guys' ass," she has reportedly said.
Image: Sonam Kapoor in Players
When she rode the Royal Enfield on the roads of Spain, Katrina seemed to be telling her male colleagues, "If you guys can, why not me?"
Other than that, she performed some underwater scenes, too. Expect an encore in Dhoom 3.
Image: Katrina Kaif in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
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Hubby Abhishek was by her side when she performed some dangerous stunts in South India's dense forests for Raavan.
Let's not forget queen Jodhaa's sword fight in Jodhaa Akbar.
In Chandni Chowk to China, she single-handedly takes on the cops at the airport, jumping up in the air, kickin' and bashing the daylight of them.
She's at it again in Rajnikanth's next, Rana.
Image: Deepika Padukone in Chandni Chowk To China
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Her sword-wielding skills in Drona came in for as much praise as her feisty action sequences in Don.
Image: Priyanka Chopra in Drona
Usually, it's another kind of stunts she's famous for -- publicity stunts, we mean.
In Hisss, her forgettable attempt at a career revival, Ms Sherawat slipped into the skin of a snake in search of her nag (male partner).
Image: Mallika Sherawat in Hisss
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Neha's Munni Madame is foul-tongued and speaks mostly with her gun.
Image: Neha Dhupia in Phas Gaye Re Obama
The ravishing con artist, Dia gets mixed up in a diamond heist and what follows are stylishly-picturised action sequences that see the otherwise cute actress engage in a game-play of chase and hit.
Image: Dia Mirza in Cash
An expert gunwoman, she means business and won't think twice before pulling the trigger.
Image: Sushmita Sen in Samay
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