Section Article

The Evolving Identities of Female Characters in Hindi Films
Author(s): Meenakshi Malik

Abstract
This research investigates the progression of female characters in Hindi film analysing how their depictions have changed over time in response to evolving social cultural and political circumstances. Historically Hindi films often portrayed women using a limited perspective marked by conventional roles and clichéd storylines. Nevertheless with the evolution of cultural perspectives on gender and the duties of women the portrayals on television have also changed. This study examines the evolution of character development in cinema by analysing important films from various decades. It finds notable changes such as the transition from idealised characters in the early years to more intricate and varied depictions in modern movies. The research focusses on the themes of agency autonomy and diversity emphasising the transformation of female characters from passive roles to active protagonists who actively confront a wider array of experiences and problems. The approach also takes into account the effect of social movements shifts in audience expectations and the contributions of women directors and authors in reconfiguring cinematic narratives. This study intends to get insights into the wider consequences of these changes on the way gender is portrayed and the ongoing conversation between cinema and society.