Anil Kapoor on 'Judaai', 'Lamhe', 'Khoobsurat': I've persistently championed strong female characters
Mumbai, July 18
Veteran Bollywood star Anil Kapoor says championing strong female characters has been a constant throughout his career, pointing to films such as Judaai and Lamhe, as well as productions like Khoobsurat, Veere Di Wedding and Crew, as examples of his long-standing belief in women-led narratives.
Anil shared his two cents on Instagram as he made a post about his latest release Alpha. He shared that his conviction is further reinforced by the strong women in his personal life.
Anil wrote in the caption section: "I've always believed that we need more films with strong female leads and voices...Whether it was acting in Judaai, Lamhe all those years ago, or producing Khoobsurat, Veere di Wedding and Crew, I've persistently championed strong female characters who are central to the story."
The actor credited his "powerful" daughters Sonam Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor for his bent "strong female characters."
"Perhaps it's because I'm a father of two incredibly strong women and the husband of a powerhouse, or maybe it's because female energy shaping and changing our world is a fact and reality of life," he mentioned.
"Either way, it's encouraging to work with people like Aditya Chopra, Shiv, Bobby, Alia, Sharvari, and the entire YRF team, who continue to believe in stories with women at the centre. That's what makes projects like this possible," he added.
Talking about his latest release, Alpha, it is the seventh installment in the YRF Spy Universe, starring Alia Bhatt, Sharvari, Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol.
The film follows a highly trained assassin raised in isolation as a super-soldier by a rogue commander. When she discovers the dark truth about her family and her stolen childhood, she teams up with her long lost sister to take down her creator and his illicit military program.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I love Anil Kapoor's energy even at this age. But let's be real—Bollywood still has a long way to go. One actor's personal journey doesn't change the fact that most male stars still shy away from sharing screen space with strong female leads. Good on him for walking the talk, but we need systemic change, not just PR statements. 😕
Yaar, this is so wholesome. ❤️ Anil uncle papped Sonam and Rhea so beautifully—it's clear he's been influenced by the women at home. And Alpha sounds intense! Alia Bhatt and Sharvari together? Count me in. Finally, a spy universe with women kicking butt instead of just being love interests.
I appreciate Anil Kapoor's stance, but I'd love to see more substance than just Instagram posts. Where are the age-appropriate roles for actresses? Where is the pay parity? Bollywood still objectifies women more than it empowers them. That said, he's one of the few who actually produced female-led films—so kudos for that. 🎬
Anil Kapoor has always been a feminist icon without even trying! Remember how he stood by Karisma in 'Judaai'? Or how he let Sridevi shine in 'Lamhe'? 🥺 This generation needs to learn from him. And Alpha with Alia and Sharvari—finally, YRF is giving women their due. Can't wait!
S Siddharth J Nice sentiment, We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.