MUMBAI: International Women's Day—a time to celebrate fierce, bold, and unapologetically powerful women who show us that strength comes in many shapes, sizes, and attitudes. Sure, we love a good action-packed superhero movie, but sometimes the strongest women aren’t the ones wearing capes or wielding swords. Sometimes, they’re the ones who stand up for what’s right, break barriers, or show resilience in the face of challenges. Let’s check out cinema’s few of the most iconic female characters in recent times who redefined what it means to be strong. These aren’t your typical damsels in distress—these women are owning their stories, and they’re here to inspire you to take on the world like the true badasses they are.
1. Sanya Malhotra in Mrs. [ZEE5]
Sanya Malhotra has recently been talk of the town for her performance as Richa in ZEE5’s Mrs., a woman caught between the pressures of her traditional marriage and her own dreams. As she juggles cooking, cleaning, and endless expectations, Richa’s inner strength quietly builds, showing us how powerful it can be to stand up for yourself—even in the most stifling environments. Sanya nails the role with perfect balance, turning Richa’s frustration into a slow burning, yet impactful rebellion. Her journey from dutiful wife to self-aware dreamer is both relatable and empowering, reminding us that sometimes strength is about finding your voice amidst the chaos.
2. Sobhita Dhulipala in Love Sitara [ZEE5]
Sobhita Dhulipala’s character of Sitara in Love Sitara is the perfect example of balancing confidence and vulnerability. Sitara, an award-winning interior designer, is a woman of contradictions—independent yet deeply entangled in the secrets of her family. When she impulsively proposes to her boyfriend, Arjun, her bold move quickly unravels a web of hidden truths that threaten to derail her whirlwind wedding plans. Sobhita brings a refreshing mix of charm to Sitara, making her not just a woman who’s trying to figure it all out, but one who’s determined to confront the uncomfortable truths of her family and her own relationship. Her performance beautifully captures Sitara’s journey of self-discovery, proving that sometimes strength lies in facing the messiness of life head-on.
3. The Women of Dabba Cartel [Netflix]
In Dabba Cartel, the women at the heart of the story prove that strength can come from the most unexpected places. What starts as a simple tiffin service quickly escalates into a dangerous drug empire, led by women who refuse to back down. Raji (Shalini Pandey), a devoted housewife, becomes a fierce mastermind in a high-stakes game of crime and survival, while her partners-in-crime—Mala (Nimisha Sajayan), Shahida (Anjali Anand), and Varuna (Jyothika)—bring their own unique strengths to the table. Each woman’s journey is driven by a desperate need for empowerment, financial stability, or survival, making them complex characters in a cutthroat world. Whether it’s Raji’s quiet determination, Mala’s unshakable will, or Baa’s (Shabana Azmi) strategic genius, Dabba Cartel celebrates female resilience, ambition, and the bonds of sisterhood in the face of danger. It’s a thrilling reminder that behind every empire, there’s a woman—or five—making it happen.
4. Uorfi Javed in Follow Kar Lo Yaar [Prime Video]
In Follow Kar Lo Yaar, Uorfi Javed invites us into her world with a refreshing mix of candidness and charm. Known for her bold fashion choices, Uorfi’s series goes beyond the headlines, giving fans a chance to see the real woman behind the iconic style. With her unapologetic personality and fearless approach to life, she shows us what it takes to carve your own path in a fast-paced world. The series beautifully captures her ambition, work ethic, and the creative process behind her DIY fashion looks, while also highlighting the importance of family and personal growth. Uorfi’s openness about her experiences, from overcoming challenges to pursuing her dreams, makes Follow Kar Lo Yaar a fun and inspiring watch for anyone looking to understand the determination and resilience of this fashion icon.
5. Sushmita Sen in Taali [Jio Hotstar]
Sushmita Sen shines in Taali, beautifully portraying the powerful journey of Shreegauri Sawant, a transgender activist who fought for recognition of the third gender in India. Sen brings grace, emotional depth, and authenticity to the role, capturing Gauri's resilience and transformation. The series’ strong visuals, impactful soundtrack, and Sen’s stellar performance make Taali a heartfelt and inspiring watch, showcasing the courage and determination of a woman who changed history.
This Women’s Day don’t just celebrate – watch these incredible women own their stories and inspire you to do the same! Go watch now!
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