MOTHERS DAY 2024: INSPIRING LESSONS FROM BOLLYWOOD CINEMAA
As Mother's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the profound impact mothers have on our lives and the multifaceted nature of motherhood. For too long, Indian cinema has perpetuated a narrow depiction of mothers as flawless caregivers, sacrificing their dreams and desires for the sake of their families.
However, the times are changing, and Bollywood is now embracing a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of mothers, women who defy societal norms, challenge expectations, and redefine what it means to be a "maa."
Shefali Shah as Shamshu in ‘Darlings’ (2023)
Shefali Shah portrays Shamshu, a single mother who raises her daughter Badru (Ali Bhatt) with unconventional methods. Shamshi empowers Badru by setting a bold condition for her marriage-financial stability. This challenges the traditional focus on securing a husband quickly, regardless of his financial situation. Shamshu further defies expectations by embracing love that transcends age barriers, proving that affection knows no bounds. These traits make her a worthy addition to the list of progressive Bollywood mothers.
Ratna Pathak Shah as Sunita Kapoor in ‘Kapoor & Sons’ (2016)
Ratna Pathak Shah's portrayal of Sunita Kapoor in ‘Kapoor & Sons’ was a revelation. A mom for all ages cool, friendly, and open-minded. Sunita was a mother fighting her own battles, yet resilient enough to weather the storms alone. She was real, with flaws and imperfections, presented with honesty and authenticity. While she initially struggled with her son's life-altering secret, she ultimately let go of her anger and embraced him with the same unconditional love that defines true motherhood.
Meher Vij as Najma Malik in ‘Secret Superstar’ (2017)
Meher Vij's portrayal of Najma Malik in ‘Secret Superstar’ was a testament to the quiet strength and unwavering support that mothers offer. Najma was her daughter Insiya's best friend and secret keeper, willing to brave all odds to see her realise her dreams. And our hearts rejoiced in the end when Najma walked out on her abusive husband, holding bravely onto her children and with a resolute smile playing on her lips. Yes, her life and her dreams had just begun.
Gitanjali Rao as Vidya Iyer in ‘October’ (2018)
In ‘October,’ Gitanjali Rao's portrayal of Vidya Iyer was a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the depths of a mother's resilience. As Vidya watched her 20-year-old daughter's life slip away after a freak accident, she maintained a facade of strength and fortitude. And in the end, when she tells her young son to shake off his grief and go for his tuition classes, she's the mother who doles out an important life lesson of letting go and moving on.
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Swara Bhasker as Chanda Sahay in ‘Nil Battey Sannata’ (2016)
Beyond sharing plates of chowmein and after-school gossip, Swara's Chanda was the ultimate cool mom to her daughter Apu (Riya Shukla) in this heartwarming Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari film. But hold on, what gets even cooler? Chanda, a total boss lady who hustles as a domestic helper, decided to become Apu's classmate!
Neena Gupta as Beena Tripathi in ‘Badhaai Ho’ (2018)
In ‘Badhaai Ho,’ Neena Gupta's portrayal of Beena Tripathi was a refreshing departure from the traditional maternal archetype. At a time when society expects women to conform to certain age-related norms, Beena unapologetically embraced her pregnancy, defying societal judgements and conventions.
These remarkable characters have challenged the traditional notions of motherhood, reminding us that mothers are multifaceted individuals with their own dreams, aspirations, and identities beyond their role as caregivers. As we celebrate Mother's Day 2024, let us embrace the diversity of motherhood and honour the strength, and love that mothers bring into our lives, defying stereotypes one heart-warming story at a time.