WATCH: Ananya panday reflects on performing item numbers in film

Bollywood actress Ananya Panday has shared her perspective on performing item numbers in films, suggesting she would consider the opportunity based on the intent and treatment of the dance number.

In an interview with Humans of Bombay, the actress discussed her approach to item numbers, stating that “there are a lot of ways to do item numbers,” but emphasized the importance of empowerment and respect for the character.

“As creative people, and as filmmakers and actors, we have to be aware of the stuff that we are putting out there because we are in a position where we have so much responsibility, so you have to be aware of the impression you’re leaving out there,” she said.

Ananya explained that if the role empowers women and avoids over-sexualization or objectification, she would consider participating.

“If I feel like the girl is being empowered through the song, if she has control, if she’s not being overly sexualized, if she's not being respected, then I wouldn’t do it."

"It has to be seen from the other perspective where maybe the girl is in control. There are lots of ways where you can play around with things".

"Everything doesn’t have to be done in the way that it’s been done for so many years. There are ways to change things around, to be sexy but not to be sexualized and objectified. It’s about just switching the control to a girl instead of the man,” she said.

The actress also pointed out that objectification in entertainment affects men too, referencing instances where male actors are required to take off their shirts.

She stressed the importance of filmmakers and actors being mindful of the content they produce, adding that the problem lies in the glorification of negative elements.