New Delhi: This Women’s Day, dive into Indian cinema’s boldest tales of rebellion. From quiet homemakers finding their voice to widows defying grief norms,
these recent gems challenge deep-rooted patriarchy with nuance and fire.
These films have told stories about women who are complex and powerful in unique ways. Stream stories of resilience that spark change—perfect for celebrating women’s unfiltered power.
5 films where women shatter patriarchy
English Vinglish
Written and directed by Gauri Shinde, this 2012 gem stars the late Sridevi as Shashi Godbole, a homemaker mocked for not speaking English. In New York for her niece’s wedding, she joins a class that rebuilds her confidence. A gentle nod to valuing loved ones beyond superficial flaws. Features Adil Hussain, Mehdi Nebbou, Priya Anand. Produced by Sunil Lulla, R. Balki, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. Stream on ZEE5 or Prime Video with Eros Now.
Fakt Mahilao Maate
This 2022 Gujarati dramedy, directed by Jay Bodas and produced by Anand Pandit and Vaishal Shah, stars Yash Soni as Chintan Parikh. He hears women’s inner thoughts—grandmother, mother, sister, fiancée—exposing overlooked emotional strains. It forces empathy and respect. Amitabh Bachchan cameos. Light-hearted yet sharp on gender dynamics. Available on Amazon Prime Video’s regional catalogue.
Pagglait
Directed by Umesh Bist, produced by Guneet Monga Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor, this film stars Sanya Malhotra as Sandhya Giri, a widow defying societal grief expectations in a small-town home. With Sayani Gupta, Ashutosh Rana, Sheeba Chaddha, Chetan Sharma, Natasha Rastogi, it questions imposed roles and uncovers marriage truths. Stream on Netflix.
Lipstick Under My Burkha
Alankrita Shrivastava’s acclaimed film, produced by Prakash Jha and JB Angels, follows four Bhopal women: a college student, a married woman, a salon worker, elderly widow—each rebelling against societal limits. Stars Ratna Pathak Shah, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aahana Kumra, Plabita Borthakur. Bold tales of desire and independence. Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Thappad
Anubhav Sinha directs this powerful story of Taapsee Pannu’s Amrita, whose husband’s slap at a party shatters her acceptance of domestic violence. With Pavail Gulati, Dia Mirza, Kumud Mishra, Tanvi Azmi, Ratna Pathak Shah. Produced by Anubhav Sinha, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar. Questions endurance for the family. Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
