As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2026, cinema reminds us of the powerful stories of women, their struggles and their strength. Over the years, Bollywood has produced several impactful films that highlight important women’s issues such as gender equality, self-respect, identity, and freedom. Movies like Thappad, Mrs. and Laapataa Ladies not only entertain audiences but also spark meaningful conversations about women’s rights and their role in shaping a more equal society. 

1. Mrs. (2025) 

Film Mrs. stars Sanya Malhotra in the lead role. The story focuses on a newly married woman who struggles with unrealistic expectations placed on her by her husband and in-laws. The film explores how women’s ambitions and individuality often get ignored within traditional household roles. It encourages society to recognise women’s dreams, equality in marriage, and emotional labour inside homes.

2. Laapataa Ladies (2023) 

Directed by Kiran Rao, the film stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta and Sparsh Shrivastava. The movie is based on the story of two brides who accidentally exchange their positions during a train journey in rural India. The film covers various issues like patriarchy, identity, and women's freedom through comic and touching scenes. The movie emphasises the need for education, freedom, and the rejection of outdated customs.

 

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3. Assi (2026)

Assi is an intense courtroom drama that centres on a series of sexual assault cases, delving into themes of legal struggles, societal silence, and corruption within institutions. It is a film about a lawyer’s fight for justice, in an attempt to bring to light the human side of a series of sexual assault cases. 

4. Pink (2016) 

Pink stars Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu. The courtroom drama revolves around three young women who fight a legal battle after being falsely accused by influential men. The film strongly highlights the issue of consent and gender bias in society. Pink teaches society that ‘No means No,’ regardless of a woman’s lifestyle, clothes or background.

5. Thappad (2020) 

Thappad stars Taapsee Pannu, Pavail Gulati, and Dia Mirza. It is about a woman who chooses to end her marriage when her husband slaps her at a party. This act may seem minor to some, but it is a defining moment in her self-respect. 

6. English Vinglish (2012) 

This inspirational film stars Sridevi along with Adil Hussain and Mehdi Nebbou. The story follows Shashi, a homemaker who feels ignored by her family because she cannot speak English fluently. During a trip to New York, she joins an English class and gradually gains confidence.

 

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7. Queen (2013) 

Queen features the cast of Kangana Ranaut, along with Rajkummar Rao and Lisa Haydon. It is about the story of a young girl named Rani who faces the cancellation of her marriage by her fiancé. However, instead of staying sad and depressed, she decides to go on her honeymoon trip all by herself and finds her independence. 

8. Darlings (2022) 

Starring Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma and Roshan Mathew. The film follows a young woman trapped in an abusive marriage who slowly finds the courage to fight back with the support of her mother. Blending dark comedy with a serious issue, the movie highlights domestic violence and women’s resilience, sending a strong message that abuse should never be tolerated.