Indian cinema has been observing a positive change in terms of the representation of women on screen. From merely being a love interest of the hero to crafting impactful female-led films, we have come a long way due to the efforts of many screenwriters and filmmakers. One of the leading voices of this change is Kanika Dhillon.
She has given many memorable, strong, and progressive female characters to the industry. From Rumi from Manmarziyan, Bobby from Judgementall Hai Kya, Mandakini from Kedarnath, Nanki from Guilty to Rani from Haseen Dillruba, all of her female characters are simply unapologetic.
While the ace writer-producer is earning the lion’s share of praise for her gripping storyline and powerful dialogues for Haseen Dillruba, here’s looking at five reasons why we love Kanika’s female characters.
1) They are fearless and unapologetic
Whether it is Rumi of Manmarziyan or Rani of Haseen Dillruba, each of Kanika’s characters are bold, opinionated, and unapologetic for their choices. The courage and voice of all these women made the audience instantly root for them.
2) They are flawed and real
Instead of stereotyping a woman as a figure of sacrifices, Kanika’s ladies are flawed, messy, complex, and more than anything, they are REAL! Be it the struggle of Bobby from Judgemental Hai Kya or Nanki’s unconventional way of surviving trauma, it was the realness of these characters that struck a chord with everyone.
3) They can do anything for love
All of Kanika’s women find deep solace in love and are ready to proclaim it like no one else. While Mandakini of Kedarnath was least affected by the communal difference between her and Mansoor, both Rumi and Rani’s passion in Manmarziyan and Haseen Dillruba, respectively, received roaring applause.
4) They voice important issues
Apart from crafting layered female characters, Kanika has a flair for raising important issues through her women on screen. From the #MeToo movement to love in the digital age to shedding light on mental health, her characters have a message to deliver, and we love to hear their voices.
5) They are decisive
Kanika’s ladies are known to take charge of their lives and are courageous enough to live by their decisions. All the women in her films are powerful and lead lives on their own terms. Rani of Haseen Dillruba was ready to face any consequence of her choices, and that is what made her fearless and desirable.