FROM SUBSERVIENCE TO EMPOWERMENT: THE PORTRAYAL OF WOMEN IN INDIAN FILMS

Abstract

This paper examines the evolution of female images in Indian movies from the early 20th century to the present day. It argues that the portrayal of women in Indian cinema has been influenced by the changing social, political, and economic conditions of India. In the early years, female characters were often depicted as passive and subservient, reflecting the traditional view of women in Indian society. However, in recent decades, there has been a growing trend towards portraying women as strong, independent, and capable individuals. This shift is due in part to the increasing participation of women in all aspects of Indian life, as well as the growing influence of global feminism. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of the changing portrayal of women in Indian cinema for social change