Cinema has long been considered a mirror reflecting the evolving contours of society. The journey of Indian cinema has been a fascinating one, transitioning from religious and spiritual themes to patriotic narratives and, more recently, showcasing a surge in films venting anger against the socio-political landscape. However, a concerning trend has emerged in the past few years, as Bollywood witnesses the poor state of womanhood and an increasing glorification of masculinity.

Evolution of Indian Cinema:
In the 1940s, Indian cinema predominantly revolved around religious and spiritual themes, offering a reflection of the cultural fabric of the time. As the decades progressed, a wave of patriotic fervor swept through Bollywood, with films showcasing the struggle for independence and celebrating the spirit of the nation. The late 1980s witnessed a shift towards movies expressing discontent with the prevailing socio-political system, offering a platform for societal critique.

The Poor State of Womanhood:
However, recent years have seen a troubling regression in the portrayal of women in Bollywood. A surge in films containing abusive language and extreme depictions of women has cast a dark shadow on the industry. Songs and dialogues that reflect women in an extremely derogatory light have become alarmingly prevalent, raising questions about the industry's responsibility in shaping societal attitudes.

The Glorification of Masculinity:
Simultaneously, there has been a noticeable trend in the glorification of masculinity in Bollywood. Muscle power and extreme violence are increasingly portrayed as synonymous with success, perpetuating a narrative that reinforces traditional gender stereotypes. The rise of hyper-masculine protagonists often involves the marginalization and objectification of female characters, contributing to the overall degradation of womanhood on-screen.

Impact on Society:
The question that arises is whether these cinematic portrayals merely reflect societal attitudes or contribute to shaping them. It is alarming to note that such films are not only gaining popularity but are also finding an audience among women. This shift prompts a critical examination of the evolving mindset of the country. Are these films influencing societal perceptions, or are they merely a reflection of existing norms?

Changing Mindsets:
While it is tempting to attribute the changing landscape solely to the film industry, it is crucial to recognize that cinema both reflects and shapes societal attitudes. The popularity of movies that glorify masculinity and degrade womanhood suggests a deeper societal shift in perceptions of gender roles and power dynamics. It becomes imperative to question whether these cinematic representations are reinforcing regressive norms or challenging them.

The Concluding Note:
The poor state of womanhood and the increasing trend of masculinity in Bollywood demand a nuanced analysis of their impact on society. As cinema continues to be a powerful medium with a far-reaching influence, it is crucial for filmmakers, audiences, and society at large to engage in a dialogue about the messages being conveyed. Bollywood has the potential to play a transformative role in shaping positive societal attitudes, and a conscientious effort towards responsible storytelling can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable representation of gender on-screen and in society.

Disclaimer:
Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation expressed herein are being shared in the public Interest. Readers' discretion is advised as these are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue involved herein.

Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney
Email: [email protected], Ph no: 9990389539