Actor Kritika Kamra has never shied away from strong, layered characters, be it in a film like Bheed (2023) or web series like Hush Hush and Gyaarah Gyaarah. Now, as she gears up for a female-oriented film directed by Anusha Rizvi, the 36-year-old feels feminism is one of the most misinterpreted words in our society.

“It’s a pity that so many women today hesitate to call themselves feminists,” she tells us, adding, “The term has been misunderstood, demonised, and twisted beyond its meaning. Being pro-women’s rights does not mean hating men.”

While tight-lipped about her role in Rizvi’s film, she points out that the film industry has been steadily evolving, and shares. “Compared to a lot of other workplaces, the film industry is more equitable. We have to thank the women who came before us. They made a strong case for equitable pay and treatment, and the dialogue is still on.”

She also highlights how women-centric Indian films such as All We Imagine As Light, Santosh, and Girls Will Be Girls (both 2024) have taken the conversation global: “It makes me proud to see these stories travel and make India shine on international stages.”

However, Kritika insists that there is plenty of room to grow. “The characterization of women on-screen needs improvement. It’s not just about having women leads, but also about giving female characters agency and depth, especially in hero-led films,” she signs off.