Bollywood, with its never-ending drama and unexpected twists and turns, is famous for its timeless romantic stories and vibrant dance sequences set against picturesque backdrops like the Alps, where characters twirl in summer attire. Yet, to solely focus on these aspects would be a disservice to the multifaceted nature of Bollywood.
There exists another dimension to Bollywood, one that goes beyond mere entertainment to touch lives, inspire dreams, and instill hope in countless individuals. Indian cinema goes beyond being a mere diversion for a couple of hours; it embodies a way of life. It's an art form that invites viewers to immerse themselves fully in its narratives, empathizing with its characters and seeing the world through their eyes.
Bollywood Giving Lessons to Patriarchy
Indian cinema has the power to permute people's lives and their way of streamlining their thoughts. It is a powerful tool that we have bequeathed to a handful of people who rarely use it right but when they do, the change is prolific. With this, we have brought to you 5 such powerful dialogues that will make you ponder about certain societal issues (hint: patriarchy).
1. "Mard khana banaye toh kala hai? Aurat khana banaye toh uska farz hai!"- Sashi, English Vinglish
Sashi's character, which was portrayed by Sridevi has left an indelible mark on all of us, and this dialogue, although a very common line, instantly makes us think about how we have distinguished the production of labour into two sexes. This is common in most jobs; people assume doctors to be males and nurses to be females. It is so deeply ingrained in all of us that it is imperative we unlearn these distinctions. Cooking and culinary expertise may be a natural flair or a taught experience, but either way, it is a service that needs to be acknowledged every day.
2. "Hum churaaye hain toh bas ek mauka, apni zindagi jeene ke liye." - Jaya, Laapataa Ladies
The movie that made quite some buzz for being the revival of Indian cinema and Bollywood has been garnered with much love and adoration by the viewers. From very real and layered performances, each character has illustrated their character arc seamlessly. This dialogue by Jaya has resonated with many women who had to fight for believing in something, for having ambitions and for wanting to make something of themselves.
3. "Aaj tak hum sab ek galat direction mai effort kar rahe hain! We should save our boys, not our girls. Because if we save our boys, then our girls will be safe!" - Deepak Sehgal, Pink
Pink was a revolutionary movie with a brilliant cast and plot. The humanity in all characters, especially Amitabh Bachchan's role (Deepak Sehgal) was deep and immensely appreciated by many. The story revolved around rape and sexual assault, which focuses on courtroom drama. This line not only makes an impact on the viewers but also on the characters. Patriarchy has been a man serving system, created by men, thrived by men on the expense of women and other genders. This dialogue empowers us all.
4. "Just a slap? Nahi maar sakta." - Amrita, Thappad
A female centric movie that revolves around 'one slap.' The sad reality portrayed through this movie is how a husband slapping his wife, once, is not enough to speak up against his behaviour. Amrita not only fights for her respect but also with her own lawyer, parents and the world to tell them that it is not just about one slap, it is about not abusing your partner, at all.
5. "Jab ek ladki khuli aankhon se sapne dekhne lagti hai, toh phir uski duniya badal jaati hai." - Taani, Rab Ne Banadi Jodi
A woman dreaming and looking out for her ambitions is not seen as well intentioned for many men, even today. Taani in this movie not only struggles to find her love for dance but also struggles to find her place within a system that trivialises her every day for dreaming. This is not just true for Taani but many girls who still do not have a proper agency or resources.