“They Lied About Drinking, They Lied About Dating”: Manisha Koirala Exposes 90s Bollywood Sexism

Remember the glamorous era of 90s Bollywood? The iconic music, the larger-than-life stars, and the captivating stories? But behind the glitz and glamour, there was a darker side, as revealed by actress Manisha Koirala. In a recent interview, she shed light on the rampant sexism she faced during her career, exposing the hypocrisy and double standards within the industry.

“They’d be lying about drinking, lying about their dating life, while I was being judged for everything,” Manisha shared, highlighting the unequal treatment she experienced compared to her male counterparts. “I was told I was too outspoken, too independent, and that I needed to be more ‘ladylike.'”

Her experiences are not unique. A 2018 study by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication revealed that 70% of female actors faced some form of sexual harassment in the industry. This shocking statistic further underscores the reality of sexism that has plagued Bollywood for decades.

The Double Standard:

Manisha’s revelations bring to light the double standards faced by female actors. While male stars were lauded for their charisma and “bad boy” image, female stars were often judged harshly for their choices. This can be seen in the media’s portrayal of actresses, often focusing on their personal lives and relationships rather than their talent and accomplishments.

“There was a lot of pressure to conform to this image of a perfect woman,” Manisha explained. “You were supposed to be beautiful, submissive, and always available. If you didn’t fit that mold, you were ostracized.”

The Fight for Equality:

Manisha’s courage in speaking out about her experiences is a crucial step towards dismantling the sexist structures within Bollywood. Her revelations spark a necessary conversation about the need for equal treatment and respect for all actors, regardless of gender.

This isn’t just a Bollywood problem; it’s a societal issue. The fight for gender equality is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of artists, industry leaders, and the audience to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone.

Keywords:

• Manisha Koirala

• Bollywood

• Sexism

• 90s Bollywood

• Female Actors

• Double Standard

• Gender Equality

• Indian Cinema

• Bollywood History

• Female Empowerment

• Sexual Harassment

• Industry Practices

By sharing these stories and demanding change, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable future for all.