Bollywood's New Woman: Liberalization, Liberation and Contested Bodies

The Bollywood's New Woman explores how Bollywood portrays the Indian Woman since the 1990s, drawing from sociological and historical discourses. It is a variant of the "New Woman" phenomenon but has unique characteristics due to India's neoliberal reform, middle class consolidation, and Hindu Right politics.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 222 pages
\n Publication date: 18 June 2021
\n Publisher: Rutgers University Press
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Bollywood's New Woman delves into the intricate tapestry of Bollywood's portrayal and construction of the Indian Woman since the 1990s. This groundbreaking collection sheds light on the multifaceted contexts and contours of this contemporary figure, widely recognized in sociological and historical discourses as the "New Woman." At the same time, this figure emerges as a unique manifestation in the Indian context, shaped by the nation's encounter with neoliberal reform, the consolidation of the middle class, and the ascendancy of aggressive Hindu Right politics.

The "New Woman" phenomenon, which gained prominence in the United Kingdom and the United States towards the end of the 19th century, finds its echo in Bollywood's portrayal of the Indian Woman. This figure represents a departure from traditional gender roles and societal expectations, embracing independence, assertiveness, and a pursuit of personal aspirations. In the Indian context, the New Woman emerges as a distinct articulation, shaped by the country's ongoing journey toward economic liberalization, the growing influence of the middle class, and the political dominance of the Hindu Right.

The New Woman in Bollywood is characterized by her boldness, resilience, and determination. She defies societal norms and challenges patriarchal structures, advocating for gender equality and social justice. She is often portrayed as a successful professional, breaking barriers and achieving her dreams against all odds. However, this portrayal is not without its complexities. The New Woman is often depicted as a hybrid figure, blending traditional Indian values with Western influences, creating a sense of ambiguity and tension.

The film industry plays a significant role in shaping the New Woman's image in Bollywood. Through its narratives and characters, Bollywood portrays the New Woman as a symbol of progress, empowerment, and modernity. However, this representation is not without its critiques. Some argue that Bollywood's portrayal of the New Woman is often superficial, focusing more on her appearance and sexual appeal rather than her depth and complexity. Others point out that the New Woman's narrative is often limited to a narrow range of tropes, such as the romantic triangle, the revenge plot, or the struggle for independence.

Despite these critiques, Bollywood's New Woman continues to resonate with audiences, particularly young women who identify with her boldness and resilience. She serves as a role model for breaking free from traditional constraints and pursuing one's dreams, inspiring a generation of women to challenge societal norms and pursue their aspirations.

In conclusion, Bollywood's New Woman is a complex and multifaceted figure, representing a departure from traditional gender roles and societal expectations. While she is often portrayed as a symbol of progress and empowerment, her representation is not without its complexities and critiques. The film industry plays a significant role in shaping this figure, and her impact on audiences, particularly young women, is undeniable. As Bollywood continues to evolve and adapt to changing societal norms, it will be interesting to see how the New Woman continues to evolve and shape the narrative of Indian cinema.

\n Weight: 330g\n
Dimension: 235 x 155 x 15 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781978814448\n \n