There was a time in Hindi cinema when “being a girl” was associated with limitations and compromises. But some actresses redefined this very notion through their roles, mindset, and fearless choices. They proved that sensitivity is not a weakness, but another name for confidence, decision-making ability, and courage. All these actresses, in their own eras, proved that a woman alone has the right to define herself. Today, the woman in Hindi cinema is not just a part of the story, but the force that shapes its direction—because now, “being a girl” is not a weakness, but a strength. So, on the occasion of National Girl Child Day, let’s take a look at those actresses who became an inspiration for audiences through their films.
Tabu
From Chandni Bar to Astitva, power-performer Tabu has aced every role with a grace voicing the strength of women through her works! Her power-infused iconic characters have redefined women led narratives in Bollywood!
Kajol
Kajol brought empowered female characters into the mainstream as early as the 1990s. In films like Dushman and Fanaa, her emotional strength and decision-making ability showed that a woman can be strong in every role—be it a mother, a lover, or a wife.
Rani Mukerji
With films like Black, Mardaani, and Hichki, Rani Mukerji gave a new definition to female power. Her characters became symbols of leadership, compassion, and determination, where “being a girl” emerged as a strength in itself.
Kangana Ranaut
From Queen to Tanu Weds Manu, Kangana portrayed women who chart their own life paths. Her boldness turned “being a girl” into an identity of fearlessness and self-reliance.
Janhvi Kapoor
From Dhadak to Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl and Mili, Janhvi Kapoor chose roles that are emotionally strong, confront fear, and refuse to bow to circumstances. In Gunjan Saxena, she showed that a girl’s dreams can touch the sky, while Mili portrayed survival and mental resilience with great simplicity.
Alia Bhatt
At a young age, Alia Bhatt proved that emotional depth itself is a great strength. In Highway, Raazi, and Gangubai Kathiawadi, her characters appear sensitive yet incredibly strong.
Vidya Balan
Vidya Balan broke the myth that there is a fixed template to become a heroine. Through films like Kahaani, The Dirty Picture, and Sherni, she placed independent, strong, and thoughtful women at the center of the narrative—without any compromise.
Deepika Padukone
Through films like Chhapaak and Padmaavat, Deepika presented examples of courage, dignity, and self-respect. By speaking openly about mental health, she has also become a powerful voice for millions of girls in real life.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka stepped beyond the boundaries of Indian cinema to create a strong global identity. At the same time, through Mary Kom, she showed that a girl has every right to dream and fulfill those dreams—and that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.
Taapsee Pannu
In films like Pink and Thappad, Taapsee gave a voice to women who refuse to stay silent, question injustice, and stand up for their self-respect.
Madhuri Dixit
Gulabi Gang, Lajja, and Mrs. Deshpande are powerful women-centric projects in which Madhuri Dixit used her voice to stand up for women and their rights. Through these films and series, she portrayed characters who challenged patriarchy, spoke against injustice, and highlighted issues faced by women across different social backgrounds.