Supriya Pathak feels Bollywood is moving away from clichéd masala films

Actor speaks on modern cinema, women’s rights


Ians March 15, 2016
Pathak married actor-director Pankaj Kapur in 1986. PHOTO: FILE

NEW DELHI: A common thread among films such as Bajirao Mastani, Neerja or Tanu Weds Manu Returns together is the presence of character actors with strong roles. Building upon this fact, Bollywood actor Supriya Pathak has stated that while the film industry is indeed moving away from “clichéd Indian masala films,” the need for lead stars will never fade away.

“Although the need and demand for lead actors will never fade in the film industry, character roles have also become popular and more importantly, they are very integral for the script,” said Pathak. After being a part of the industry for over four decades, she claimed that a new wave of change has seeped in. “It is great that the industry is open to accepting character roles and moving away from the clichéd Bollywood masala films.” Talking about the stereotypical perceptions of women in society, Pathak asserted, “Nothing changes overnight and neither will this.”

Nonetheless, Pathak believes there has been a slight shift in domestic responsibilities as well. “The commonly held belief that household activities are only taken care of by the woman is definitely changing slowly. And, this change will not only benefit the future of women but for their entire family and in turn, the society,” said the actor, last seen in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon.

While some may recall Pathak as the jovial Hansa Parekh from the popular TV comedy Khichdi, others know her as Deepika Padukone’s headstrong mother in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. Over the years, Pathak has explored various mediums of entertainment, from films and television to theatre. Pathak said, “Why is laundry only a mother’s job?” She also praised the way the issue of gender inequality was addressed at the event. “The whole issue of gender inequality was discussed so beautifully and it is so relatable to every woman that it made me want to come and talk about it.” 

Published in The Express Tribune, March 15th, 2016.

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