From Queen to Gangubai Kathiawadi: 7 Hindi films that celebrate strength this Women’s Day 

The day of celebration for women is not only about the accomplishments women have made, but also about the individual journeys, trials, and sufferings that have shaped their lives, as well as demonstrating how strong and resilient women can be. 

There has been a gradual shift in Hindi cinema, which traditionally featured women as the “hero’s love interest”, towards more female-centric storytelling with equal, varied, and realistic portrayals of women being “flawed” yet at the same time, “powerful” and “vulnerable”, and possessing the capability to inspire. Bollywood has provided filmgoers with several examples of strong female characters ranging from “coming-of-age”/self-discovery stories to inspirational biopics about courageous women. 

Here are a few Hindi movies to add to your ‘Women’s Day Movies’ list that celebrate women, with all their individuality and differences, in as many different ways as humanly possible. 

Queen (2014) 

A film that exemplifies the journey of self-discovery is the 2014 hit Queen. The story is about Rani Mehra (the character played by Kangana Ranaut), who is a small-town girl living in Delhi who has been engaged to be married; however, a few days before the wedding, Rani’s fiancé calls off the wedding. Rani makes the decision, rather than to remain heartbroken, to go away on an adventure to Europe to experience “honeymoon” like experiences to find herself without the support of her fiancé. 

The most admirable thing about Queen is how effortlessly and subtly each of Rani’s transformations happens. Watching her explore new places, meet new people, and become more independent brings empowerment and a sense of hope to women like Rani as she is able to see herself growing before her own eyes. The most powerful part of the film is that it reminds you that the most important relationship a woman can have is with herself. 

Kahaani (2012) 

If there’s one thriller that proved women can carry a suspense film with absolute brilliance, it’s Kahaani. 

Vidya Balan portrays a pregnant woman who searches for her missing husband in the city of Kolkata, India. Underneath the intrigue and mystery of the film lies an important message about determination and resiliency. The main character will not be ignored or underestimated because she uses what is typically seen as a weakness (i.e., her possibly being seen as vulnerable) to her advantage. With an outstanding performance by Vidya Balan and one of the most surprising twists in the recent history of cinema, it makes Kahaani a must-watch film. 

Thappad (2020) 

Sometimes strength lies not in dramatic rebellion but in quiet resistance. Thappad explores exactly that. 

The story explores how one woman’s response to being slapped by her husband during an argument leads to her leaving her marriage. Although most people would consider this a “small issue,” the film creates a larger conversation about the importance of dignity and respect in all relationships. This film created a lot of dialogue on everyday sexism, as well as on the idea that dignity and respect are not negotiable in relationships. 

Secret Superstar (2017) 

People often have to overcome obstacles before achieving their dreams; Secret Superstar tells the story of a young girl who wants to be a singer but is limited by her circumstances at home. While hiding behind a veil, she uploads singing videos online from the privacy of her bedroom, navigating a dysfunctional family environment. 

While the film shows how courageous the girl is, it also illustrates how strong the girl’s mother is, as she supports her daughter in her pursuits despite facing domestic violence in her marriage. Secret Superstar deals with gender equality issues and illustrates how important it is for women to believe in themselves. 

Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) 

Not all heroes come from traditional backgrounds. Gangubai Kathiawadi went from simply being an unfortunate victim of circumstance to having an amazing influence in the world through her advocacy for sex workers and their rights. 

The film is filled with striking visuals and powerful dialogues, all depicting a woman who is unwilling to allow herself to be limited by others’ opinions. Through her transition from a powerless individual to a powerful one, we witness how one’s ability to persevere through hardship can change their situation from one of despair to one of hope and potential. 

Mary Kom (2014) 

Mary Kom highlights the power of determination when faced with adversity throughout the true-life story of an Indian boxing champion. 

The film demonstrates how this female athlete challenged stereotypes, societal norms, and her own personal struggles in order to become one of India’s most successful athletes. It serves as a powerful reminder that ambition and mothering can go hand in hand; that women can succeed in areas that have typically been male-dominated. 

Bandit Queen (1994) 

Before the latest wave of female-driven cinema, there was Bandit Queen, which tells the haunting and raw tale of Phoolan Devi, who went from being oppressed and abused to one of the most feared bandits in India. 

This remains one of the most intense portrayals of a woman taking back her power in an incredibly male-dominated world. 

Bollywood’s changing roles for women 

 
The role of women in Bollywood films (Hindi cinema) has changed dramatically over the years. In the past, they typically played minor or romantic roles, whereas today’s films increasingly focus on women’s stories, aspirations, and triumphs. 

Many actors changed this stereotype by depicting complex characters whose experiences defy social and cultural expectations (Vidya Balan in The Dirty Picture, Kangana Ranaut in Queen, Taapsee Pannu in Badla, Alia Bhatt in Gully Boy). These films demonstrate that viewers are now ready to accept narratives that focus on women’s experiences rather than just being part of the story. 

This Women’s Day, revisit these stories that remind us of one powerful truth – when women lead the narrative, cinema becomes richer, deeper, and far more inspiring.