In the past, producers were hesitant to invest in female-led or women-centric stories because they believed they wouldn’t bring in enough money at the box office. However, men dominated the film industry at that time as well. It was a world dominated by men, and women only followed the rules that men established. But over time, things changed, and several women—including Meghna Gulzar, Mira Nair, Guneet Monga, Ekta Kapoor, and Prerna Arora—challenged the traditional quo by entering the film industry. By presenting stories that focused on women, they not only helped to ignite the flames of change but also pushed the boundaries of what was considered the industry standard. In addition to striking a chord with viewers, their exploration of the invisible, underappreciated, and least-discussed female storylines altered the landscape of Indian cinema.

Filmmaker Prerna Arora, a supporter of diversity, says that films with a female focus are more important than ever in breaking preconceptions and starting debates. She exhorted viewers and other filmmakers to value the complexity of female storylines. “Female-focused films are desperately needed right now. They act as a catalyst for change in addition to being a mirror of our times. It is imperative to give women’s voices on film more prominence in the modern world when diversity and representation are more important than ever.

“These movies act as a window into society, igniting important conversations and clearing the path for a fairer and more compassionate future,” said the director, who has worked on movies like Pad Man, Pari, and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha.

Arora’s next film, Hero Heeroine, will further contribute to the industry’s revolutionary change. A pan-Indian production, “Hero Heeroine” stars Divya Khossla in the lead role, with Tusshar Kapoor, Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, and others in supporting roles.

Priyanka Dutta