Kriti Sanon Slams Bollywood's Male Dominance: 'They Get a Better Car or Room'!

In an industry often associated with glitz and glamour, Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon is spearheading a crucial conversation, moving beyond the well-documented issue of the gender pay gap to address the more subtle, yet pervasive, forms of male dominance. In a recent interview, the National Award-winning actress candidly spoke about the deep-seated biases she has encountered, stating, "They get a better car or a better room." Her comments have brought to light the daily, micro-level inequalities that persist in the film industry.

 

 

The Problem of Subtle Inequalities on Set

 

While the conversation around gender inequality in Bollywood has primarily focused on the significant difference in pay between male and female actors, Sanon's remarks highlight the everyday disparities that can go unnoticed. She pointed out that it's not always about a stark lack of opportunity, but about the small, consistent acts of preferential treatment. This can range from the quality of a car provided for an actor's commute to the size and amenities of their vanity van or hotel room.

 

These seemingly minor details underscore a larger power dynamic where male actors are often automatically afforded a higher status. Sanon also mentioned a more ingrained habit on sets, where assistant directors may instinctively call a female actor first and make them wait for their male co-star. These instances, she argues, are not about the luxury itself, but about a culture that subtly makes women feel "smaller."

 

 

The Bigger Picture: Budget, Box Office, and Pay

 

Sanon's comments also link back to the core issue of pay disparity. She has consistently challenged the logic that a film's budget and an actor's fee should be dictated by gender. The actress noted that even a female-led film with a strong script is often not scaled at the same budget as a male-led film. This, she says, is a vicious cycle. Producers, fearful of lower returns, invest less in women-centric projects, which then don't have the scale to compete at the box office, thus "justifying" the lower fees for actresses.

 

This mindset, however, is slowly but surely being challenged. The success of her own film, Crew, alongside Tabu and Kareena Kapoor, proves that compelling content, regardless of the lead's gender, can draw audiences and be a box office success.

 

 

Why This Conversation is Crucial for the Film Industry

 

Kriti Sanon's willingness to speak out on these issues is a testament to the changing landscape of the film industry. As she steps into new roles, including that of a producer and a UNFPA Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality, her voice carries significant weight. She is not just highlighting the challenges faced by actresses, but also advocating for a fundamental shift in mindset.

 

An equal playing field in Bollywood isn't just about fairness; it's about artistic and commercial potential. When the industry is free from these biases, it can focus on telling great stories, creating a more respectful and professional environment for everyone involved. Kriti Sanon's powerful message serves as a reminder that true equality is built on both grand gestures and the smallest, most respectful acts.