On Women’s Day, Bhumi Pednekar talks about the lack of women in power positions
Radhika Bhirani (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 8, 2020)

Life goes beyond loving and being loved for a woman. And bringing those other facets alive on the big screen is what Bhumi Pednekar’s filmography has been about.

As an actor, who represents the changing face of women in Indian cinema, does she feel sexism has reduced in the industry? “It has definitely become better. But I don’t think it’s enough because it’s not just about films... Women are barely there in places of power in the world. The gap is so wide, but even though it’s extremely slow, it’s filling up,” says the 30-year-old, who is happy to work with people who’re working towards “bridging the gap”.

“They’re doing it through the cinema they make. I’m part of a group in our fraternity that’s actively trying via various ways to empower our gender. But there are so many issues.”

Calling the pay gap “ridiculous”, she says, “Tomorrow when I’m in a position where I can draw in the audiences just by myself, I’m sure the pay will be as much as a male counterpart.” However, she’s waiting for a day when “both genders are paid equally”, adding “it’s a movement, we’re at it”.

From an overweight girl to a woman who fights for her right to sanitation, a dacoit, a 70-year-old sharpshooter and a girl who speaks up against colour bias, Pednekar’s roles in movies cemented her space as an artiste who wants to give the audience food for thought.

Are there things that are a no-no for her? She says, “I work by a moral compass. I can’t be a part of a film where I’m objectified. I’ve had those scripts come my way, and I’ve very happily said no.”

Besides, she likes taking on roles where “a woman will eventually be celebrated”.