Last week, film critic Rajeev Masand conducted his annual Bollywood actresses roundtable with Zaira Wasim, Ratna Pathak Shah, Vidya Balan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Swara Bhaskar.
During the course of the conversation, a lot was discussed about the rise and success of women-led films, strong female leads, and the rampant misogyny in the industry. Here is some of what the actresses said:
1.When Swara Bhaskar opened up about being harassed as a young actress:
2.And when a casting director was being inappropriate with her:
3.When Ratna Pathak Shah low-key shaded actresses for being part of misogynistic films:
4.When Swara realised there is some power in saying no, if you have the privilege to do it:
5.When Vidya Balan was tired of questions about her weight:
6.When Zaira Wasim couldn't give a damn about social media comments:
7.And when Vidya Balan gave her the perfect comeback:
8.When Swara Bhaskar was shook by the deeply ingrained misogyny in the country's audiences:
9.When Vidya spoke about women reclaiming their bodies:
10.When Swara recalled the time she had to choose her job despite being harassed:
11.When Bhumi Pednekar gave reasons women are opting for better roles:
12.When Vidya was made to feel uncomfortable at an audition even though her father was in the same room:
13.When Bhumi Pednekar recalled supporting women from waaaay back:
14.When Ratna Pathak Shah spoke on the increasing diversity in storytelling:
15.When the table collectively agreed we need to raise men better:
