- Tuesday, April 08, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Bollywood has witnessed a remarkable shift in storytelling, with female-led films taking center stage. Movies like Mrs., Gangubai Kathiawadi, and Queen have proven that compelling narratives featuring strong women can strike a chord with audiences and succeed at the box office. Here’s a list of 10 must-watch Bollywood female-centric films that celebrate empowerment, resilience, and courage.
1. Mrs. (2024)
Starring Sanya Malhotra, Mrs. is a powerful narrative about a woman redefining her identity after personal setbacks. The film is an adaptation of the critically acclaimed The Great Indian Kitchen and explores gender roles, societal expectations, and self-discovery.
2. Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)
Alia Bhatt’s Gangubai Kathiawadi is an epic biographical drama about a woman who rises from the streets of Kamathipura to become a powerful leader. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this film received critical acclaim for its stunning cinematography, gripping storytelling, and Bhatt’s career-defining performance.
3. Queen (2014)
Kangana Ranaut’s Queen remains one of Bollywood’s most loved films, narrating the journey of a woman who embarks on a solo honeymoon after being jilted. This heartwarming and humorous take on self-discovery set in Paris and Amsterdam still resonates with audiences today.
4. Raazi (2018)
Another powerful performance by Alia Bhatt, Raazi is based on a true story of an Indian spy who marries a Pakistani military officer during the Indo-Pak war. The film is a gripping thriller with an emotional core, showcasing a woman’s bravery and intelligence in the face of adversity.
5. Chhapaak (2020)
Deepika Padukone’s Chhapaak is based on the real-life story of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. The film highlights the resilience of a woman fighting for justice while raising awareness about crimes against women.
6. Darlings (2022)
This dark comedy starring Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah, and Vijay Varma explores domestic abuse, revenge, and women reclaiming their power. Darlings cleverly mixes humor and drama to address a serious social issue.
7. Panga (2020)
Featuring Kangana Ranaut, Panga tells the inspiring story of a former Kabaddi champion attempting a comeback after marriage and motherhood. The film beautifully showcases the struggles and aspirations of women balancing personal and professional ambitions.
8. Thappad (2020)
Taapsee Pannu delivers a stellar performance in Thappad, a thought-provoking film about a woman who questions the deeply ingrained patriarchy after being slapped by her husband. It’s a bold and necessary conversation on respect in relationships.
9. Shabaash Mithu (2022)
A sports biopic based on cricketer Mithali Raj, Shabaash Mithu stars Taapsee Pannu in an inspiring tale of a woman who revolutionized women’s cricket in India. The film sheds light on gender bias in sports and the power of determination.
10. Janhit Mein Jaari (2022)
Starring Nushrratt Bharuccha, this comedy-drama tackles the stigma around women’s health and contraception. With a lighthearted yet impactful approach, Janhit Mein Jaari promotes an important social message.
These female-led Bollywood films are not just about entertainment but also about breaking stereotypes, addressing crucial issues, and showcasing women’s strength in different aspects of life. With powerful performances and compelling storytelling, they prove that Bollywood is evolving, offering more space to narratives centered around women.
