- Kajal Aggarwal advocates for more diverse roles for married actors in South Indian cinema.
- Highlights the contrast between roles offered to married actors in Bollywood and the South.
- Stresses the need for filmmakers to explore new genres and break stereotypes.
Why Aren’t Married Actors Getting Meaty Roles in South Cinema?
Kajal Aggarwal, gearing up for the release of her film “Satyabhama” where she portrays a fierce cop, has voiced her thoughts on the disparity in roles offered to married actors in South Indian cinema versus Bollywood. In an interview with Galatta Plus, she discussed why female actors in the South don’t often get the kind of roles that stars like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt receive in Hindi films, including romantic leads or action roles.
Kajal, who has significant roles in upcoming films like “Indian 2” and “Satyabhama,” noted that she was offered these parts before her marriage and motherhood. She refuted the idea that sidelining married actors in the South is a cultural issue, attributing it instead to persistent stereotypes. “We still have a little bit of stereotype attached, I am hoping we get rid of it soon. It’s this generation of actors who are married and work after having children. I don’t think it’s a cultural thing; I think the audience is accepting of films like that if the makers start providing them,” she said.
How Can Filmmakers Drive This Change?
Kajal emphasized that the responsibility lies with filmmakers to offer more substantial roles to married actors. She praised actress Nayanthara for her ability to secure pivotal roles on her terms. “Things are changing. Like Nayanthara, for example, I love how she conducts her filmography. I love her choices. She is an exception and gets these parts on her terms and conditions. So that’s great. But I am happy to be working at this juncture of my life in the industry today because I’ve got kindness and compassion from my directors,” Kajal added.
Kajal also shared personal experiences about balancing her career and family life. She revealed the challenges she faced when shooting for “Indian 2” soon after giving birth. “I had my commitments before I got married–in COVID–which I honoured and travelled a lot for it. It was difficult for my husband to understand that initially because he has never seen what our industry is about. I finished the films that I had to do, got pregnant, and right after I delivered my child, I did Indian 2, which has possibly been the hardest role of my life,” she explained.
Conclusion
Kajal Aggarwal’s call for more diverse and substantial roles for married actors in South Indian cinema highlights an essential conversation about breaking stereotypes and expanding opportunities. As the industry evolves, it’s crucial for filmmakers to recognize and act on the potential of talented actors, regardless of their marital status, to drive innovation and inclusivity in cinema.
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