Manoj Bajpayee on women challenging male-dominated Bollywood: 'It's happening'

Bollywood actor Manoj Bajpayee has weighed in on the changing dynamics of the Hindi film industry, saying that actresses have been steadily establishing themselves as leading protagonists in a space traditionally dominated by men. The actor believes the transition has been underway for years, even if progress has been gradual. 

Citing Vidya Balan and Kajol as examples, Bajpayee pointed out that women have long carried films on their shoulders, challenging the perception that mainstream cinema can only thrive around male stars. He also credited the rise of OTT platforms with accelerating this shift by creating more opportunities for women-led narratives.

The actor further highlighted how streaming platforms have transformed the careers of performers who previously struggled to secure substantial roles in mainstream cinema, allowing them to gain recognition and financial stability.

Manoj Bajpayee says women have been leading films for years

During a discussion about gender representation in Bollywood, Bajpayee was asked whether the industry remained heavily dependent on male protagonists and how long it might take for female actors to enjoy the same acceptance as their male counterparts.

Responding to the question, he argued that the industry had already witnessed significant changes, with several actresses successfully taking centre stage in films.

“The heroine has been coming as a hero for a long time. I remember so many films of Vidya Balan. I remember Kajol's movies too. It is taking its time, but it's happening. What is good that is happening. And it has been happening for a long time, right?” he said.

How OTT platforms are changing opportunities for actors

Bajpayee also discussed the role of streaming services in reshaping the entertainment industry, particularly by providing greater space for stories centred on female characters.

According to the actor, the comparatively lower financial risks associated with OTT projects have made it easier for filmmakers to explore narratives that might not receive the same backing in traditional theatrical releases.

“And with OTT, it's happening more frequently because the stake is not that high,” Bajpayee said.

However, he stressed that the benefits of streaming platforms were not limited to actresses. He noted that several talented male performers who struggled to find meaningful opportunities in mainstream Bollywood were now receiving recognition through digital projects.

“Look at the actors who could not even get rightly consumed earlier. Male actors could not even get consumed by mainstream cinema. They are getting so much respect on OTT,” he said.

The actor added that the availability of more substantial roles had also improved the financial circumstances of many performers.

“And their lifestyle is maintained. They are finding some kind of comfort in their life because of all those roles that they have been getting,” he added.

Vidya Balan and Kajol's contribution to women-led cinema

Vidya Balan has been among the prominent actresses associated with female-driven narratives in Hindi cinema. Over the years, she has portrayed a wide range of characters in films such as 'The Dirty Picture', 'Kahaani', 'No One Killed Jessica', 'Tumhari Sulu' and 'Sherni'.

Her film choices have helped demonstrate that compelling stories centred on women can attract audiences without relying on conventional male-led narratives.

Kajol has also explored prominent female characters across films and streaming projects. Her work includes 'Dushman', 'Helicopter Eela' and 'The Trial', alongside projects associated with 'The Good Wife'.

Both actresses have contributed to expanding the scope of roles available to women in the Hindi entertainment industry, reflecting the gradual transformation Bajpayee spoke about.

Manoj Bajpayee's latest project

On the work front, Bajpayee was recently seen in the suspense thriller 'Gajab Raat', directed by Ritesh Shah.

The film, which also stars Divya Dutta, premiered on Netflix on October 23.