From Pink To Chapaak: 7 Bollywood Movies That Broke Social Taboos
These movies prove that Bollywood can spark meaningful changes by addressing pressing social issues. From caste discrimination to consent and domestic violence, these films pushed audiences to question deep rooted biases and norms. Their influence extended beyond cinema, and awareness campaigns. Together, they mark a turning point where entertainment became a vehicle for empowerment and social transformation.
Article 15- Confronting the harsh reality of cast discrimination
Article 15 takes a fearless look at caste based injustice in India, inspired by true incidents. Ayushmann Khurrana’s role as a principled IPS officer exposes deep rooted inequalities in rural society. The film stirred debates on how discrimination persists in modern India, proving cinema can be a mirror to untouchable truths.
Pink- Redefining consent and women's rights
With the iconic line “No means No”, Pink became a turning point in how India viewed consent. Starring Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu, it tells the story of three women fighting a legal battle against their influential attackers. Beyond entertainment, it challenges patriarchal mindsets and promotes gender sensitivity nationwide.
Thappad- Breaking the silence around domestic violence
Thappad questions why even a single act of violence in a marriage is often ignored. Taapsee Pannu’s quiet yet powerful portrayal of a woman standing up for her dignity resonated with countless viewers, sparking online and offline conversations about emotional and physical abuse in relationships.
Mulk- Speaking up against religious prejudice
Mulk continents the dangerous consequences of communal stereotyping. When a Muslim family is wrongfully accused of supporting terrorism, the narrative shifts from blame to understanding. Rishi Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu deliver stirring performances that urge audiences to value unity over division.
Chhapaak- Shedding light on acid attack survivor's struggles
Based on the life of Laxmi Agarwal, Chhapaak tells the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of a woman's fight for justice after an acid attack. Deepika Padukone's sensitive portrayal humanizes survivors, while the film amplified the demand for stricter laws and rehabilitation support.
Pad Man- Shattering Menstrual Taboos
Pad Man not only entertains but also addresses one of India's most neglected health issues- menstrual hygiene. Akshay Kumar's portrayal of Arunachalam Muruganatham shows how a man's mission brought affordable sanitary pads to rural women, igniting nationwide awareness.
My Name Is Khan- Breaking down Islamophobia and Prejudice
In a post 9/11 world, My Name Is Khan tackles the issue of Islamophobia head-on. Shah Rukh Khan's unforgettable performance sends a message of humanity above religion, echoing the sentiment that “My name is Khan, and I am not a terrorist”.
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