International Women’s Day 2024: 15 Inspirational Women-Centric Bollywood Movies

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The Bollywood film industry, known for its vibrant storytelling and rich cultural narratives, has also been a platform for addressing pressing social issues, particularly those affecting women.

In recent years, several films have emerged that not only entertain but also provoke thought and conversation about gender concerns, feminist narratives, and women's empowerment.

These movies, starring some of the industry's most talented actresses, have tackled themes ranging from domestic violence to human trafficking, all while breaking gender stereotypes and celebrating the strength and resilience of women.

08 March marks International Women's Day, and therefore, on this special occasion let's check out the list of inspiring films that scream woman power.

1. Bhakshak (2024)
This film stars Bhumi Pednekar and is a crime thriller film based on the 2018 Muzaffarpur women shelter case. This one portrays a harrowing and shocking true story of a woman's terrible struggle for justice and truth. It is sadly inspired by the stories of 34 minors who endured sexual abuse in the Muzaffarpur girls' shelter home.

2. Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway (2023)
Released in March 2023, "Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway" stars Rani Mukherjee in a powerful role based on true events. The film showcases a mother's battle against the Norwegian government for taking her children away, citing improper upbringing due to cultural misunderstandings. Mukherjee's portrayal of a mother-emotional yet unyieldingly strong-resonates deeply, highlighting a universal theme of maternal love and the fight for justice.

3. Tarla (2023)
Tarla," featuring Huma Qureshi, pays tribute to the celebrated chef and food writer Tarla Dalal. Released in July of the previous year, the biopic explores Dalal's influence on breaking gender stereotypes in cooking and promoting it as a respected profession regardless of gender. Dalal's legacy of empowering women through her culinary skills is beautifully captured in this film.

4. Mrs. Undercover (2023)
A unique take on the life of a housewife is presented in "Mrs. Undercover," with Radhika Apte leading the charge. The film intertwines thrill and humor, portraying a homemaker who doubles as an undercover agent assigned to track down a serial killer targeting ambitious women. Apte's performance brings depth to this intriguing narrative, blending domestic life with suspenseful elements.

5. Dhak Dhak (2023)
"Dhak Dhak," released on October 13, 2023, narrates the journey of four women from different walks of life, united by their desire to escape their mundane lives for an adventurous bike trip to Ladakh. The ensemble cast, including Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sanjana Sanghi, delivers a compelling story of friendship, freedom, and self-discovery.

6. Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)
This film stars Alia Bhatt in the titular role. The movie is based on the true story of Gangubai, a prominent figure in Mumbai's red-light district. It combines a feminist narrative with the appeal of a commercially successful melodrama, showcasing the power and resilience of its protagonist.

7. Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)
This movie stars Janhvi Kapoor as Gunjan Saxena, the first female pilot in combat in the Indian Air Force, breaking gender barriers and inspiring countless women.

8. Thappad (2020)
This film features Taapsee Pannu in a compelling role that challenges the societal norms surrounding marriage and domestic violence, urging viewers to question and reflect on these issues.

9. Mom (2017)
This movie showcases Sridevi in a powerful role as a mother seeking justice for her daughter after a brutal assault, highlighting the disparities in gender safety and justice.

10. Sarbjit (2016)
This film sees Aishwarya Rai portraying Dalbir Kaur, a sister fighting tirelessly for her brother's freedom after he is wrongly imprisoned in Pakistan, showcasing the strength and determination of women.

11. Mardaani (2014)
This film features Rani Mukerji as a determined policewoman, delves into the dark world of human trafficking. The film breaks gender stereotypes by portraying a strong female police officer leading the fight against crime.

12. Mary Kom (2014)
This film stars Priyanka Chopra in the lead, and chronicles the life of the renowned boxer Mary Kom, highlighting her journey towards becoming India's most celebrated female boxer against all odds.

13. Kahaani (2012)
Vidya Balan plays a pregnant woman in this film who is on a quest to find her missing husband in Kolkata. This thriller not only touches on feminism and motherhood but also highlights the challenges women face in a patriarchal society.

14. English Vinglish (2012)
This movie tells the heartwarming story of a homemaker, played by Sridevi, who embarks on a journey to learn English to regain her self-respect and challenge societal expectations.

15. No One Killed Jessica (2011)
This movie features Rani Mukerji and Vidya Balan as two women fighting for justice in the real-life murder case of Jessica Lal, emphasizing the importance of women's rights and exposing systemic corruption.