The landscape of Indian cinema has seen a significant evolution in recent years, particularly in the portrayal of women on screen. Bollywood, known for its vibrant storytelling, has shifted its focus towards narratives that celebrate the resilience, strength, and multifaceted roles of women. In this journey, ZEE5 has played a pivotal role by curating and showcasing an array of women-centric Bollywood movies that resonate deeply, empower audiences, and challenge societal norms.
At the heart of ZEE5’s catalog lies a rich tapestry of women-centric Hindi movies, each highlighting the triumphs, struggles, and diverse experiences of female protagonists. These female-oriented movies in Bollywood transcend the conventional confines of entertainment. They serve as powerful reflections of real-life challenges faced by women, prompting conversations on empowerment, equality, and societal transformation.
So, if you’re looking for some women-centric Bollywood movies to watch online, here’s a list of the top 10 women-oriented Bollywood movies streaming on ZEE5:
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Undercover (2023)
Any women-centric Bollywood movie list would be incomplete without the mention of Mrs. Undercover. Directed by Anushree Mehta, this film revolves around Durga (Radhika Apte), an undercover agent re-entering the field after 13 years to capture a serial killer known as The Common Man. Balancing her life as a housewife and secret operative, Durga goes above and beyond to unveil the killer’s identity. The movie delves into espionage, duality, and the sacrifices made by women in unconventional roles, offering a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue.
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Chhatriwali (2023)
Another one of our favorite female-oriented movies in Hindi is Chhatriwali. In this film, Rakul Preet Singh portrays Sanya Dhingra, an advocate for sex education and contraceptives. It shows her journey from a chemistry graduate who was once hesitant to talk about contraceptives, to a strong opinionated woman who understands and vouches for the benefits of sex education and contraceptives. The film humorously addresses societal taboos, advocating for awareness among the youth. It sheds light on important social issues, encouraging open discussions while challenging stigmas and advocating for change.
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Janhit Mein Jaari (2022)
Nushrratt Bharuccha embodies Mannu Tripathi, a woman navigating societal resistance while selling condoms in Janhit Mein Jaari. The film blends humor with advocacy, showcasing women’s agency in promoting protection. It humorously tackles taboos and societal norms, emphasizing the importance of sexual health awareness, making it one of the best female-led Bollywood movies focusing on this topic.
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Rashmi Rocket (2021)
Rashmi Rocket is one of the most inspiring women-centric films from Bollywood. It features Taapsee Pannu as Rashmi Chibber, an athlete fighting gender biases in the sports world. Rashmi’s journey through the Indian sports scene portrays her struggles and determination. The film sheds light on societal norms and challenges faced by women in pursuing their passions.
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Mom (2017)
Any women-centric Bollywood movies list would be incomplete without the iconic Sridevi starrer, Mom. Sridevi portrays Devki Sabarwal, a mother seeking justice for her stepdaughter after a traumatic incident. Devki takes matters into her own hands, seeking vengeance against the perpetrators. The film explores themes of maternal instincts, justice, and familial bonds amidst tragedy.
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Tarla (2023)
Tarla is an inspiring tale revolving around a seemingly common woman who made it big in the culinary world. Huma Qureshi portrays Tarla Dalal, a woman revolutionizing vegetarian cuisine. The film celebrates Tarla’s journey in the culinary world, highlighting her innovations and resilience. It showcases a woman’s determination to challenge conventions and leave a lasting legacy in her field, making it one of the must-watch women-centric Bollywood movies on ZEE5.
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Saand Ki Aankh (2019)
Saand Ki Aankh is one of those women-centric Bollywood movies that leaves you motivated in life. Taapsee Pannu and Bhumi Pednekar play the roles of Chandro and Prakashi Tomar, two elderly sharpshooters breaking age barriers. The film narrates their inspiring journey, depicting their challenges, achievements, and contributions to the sport. It celebrates their spirit, resilience, and determination, making it a must-watch for every woman who needs some motivation. If they can do it at that age, so can you!
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Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017)
One of the most impactful women-centric Bollywood films in recent years is Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. Bhumi Pednekar and Akshay Kumar lead this film addressing sanitation issues in rural India. The narrative centers around a woman’s struggle for a toilet in her home, sparking a movement for societal change. It highlights the fight against taboos and the importance of basic amenities for women’s dignity.
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Badnaam Gali (2019)
Surrogacy is a rarely talked about topic, and Patralekha Paul’s Badnaam Gali was one of the first films to talk about this with such sensitivity. Nayonika(Patralekha Paul) navigates the complexities of surrogacy, depicting a heartfelt narrative on unconventional motherhood. The film humorously addresses societal perceptions and challenges surrounding surrogacy.
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NH10 (2015)
NH10 features Anushka Sharma’s Meera who embarks on a quest for justice after witnessing an honor killing on the NH10 highway. Meera confronts societal norms and violence, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity. The film portrays the harsh realities of rural India and the challenges faced by women in these areas.
These women-centric Bollywood movies encapsulate the essence of empowerment, celebrating the numerous facets of women’s journeys, aspirations, and resilience. ZEE5‘s commitment to curating such diverse narratives underscores its dedication to inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment. Beyond their entertainment value, these narratives echo the struggles and triumphs of women in real life. They serve as catalysts for introspection, sparking discussions on gender roles, societal norms, and the empowerment of women in various spheres of life.
As you immerse yourselves in these compelling stories, you’ll find yourselves celebrating the strength, courage, and unwavering spirit of the female characters depicted on-screen. These narratives not only entertain but also inspire, serving as a reflection of the ongoing pursuit of empowerment and progress.
ZEE5’s role in championing women-centric narratives has been instrumental in shaping the discourse around gender representation in cinema. By providing a platform for these impactful stories on a global OTT platform, ZEE5 continues to pave the way for more diverse and empowering narratives, fostering a cultural shift towards inclusivity and celebrating the multifaceted roles of women in society. As viewers engage with these films, they become a part of a larger conversation—a celebration of women’s resilience and triumphs, both on and off the screen.