Filmmakers, rewrite narratives

Indian films often depict love at first sight, reducing women to mere objects of attraction. 
| Photo Credit: SREEJITH R. KUMAR

Indian cinema has long shaped cultural norms, inspiring dreams but also reinforcing harmful stereotypes. One of the most damaging narratives is the portrayal of women as possessions to be “won” in the name of love. This toxic storytelling has real-world consequences, normalising harassment, stalking, and entitlement.

A recurring theme in Indian films is the relentless pursuit of a woman by the hero, often against her wishes. This pursuit, sometimes involving manipulation, stalking, or even violence, is framed as romantic. The woman’s rejection is depicted as a temporary obstacle rather than a decision, sending the message that persistence is love. When rejection is not respected in films, it fosters a culture in which women’s autonomy is disregarded, sometimes leading to violence. It is time filmmakers took responsibility and reshaped these narratives.

The term “love failure”, popularised by cinema, reinforces the idea that love is a conquest and rejection is a loss. This framing fosters entitlement, where men see rejection as an affront to their worth. Instead of encouraging acceptance, this mindset fuels anger and sometimes leads to revenge. Language shapes perception, and removing this term from cinematic dialogues can promote a healthier understanding of relationships. Rejection should be portrayed as a natural part of life, an opportunity for growth, rather than as a failure. So, filmmakers should consciously avoid using the term “love failure” in their movies, as it carries a deeply negative connotation.

Instant attraction

Indian films often depict love at first sight, reducing women to mere objects of attraction. This superficial portrayal distorts relationships, prioritising looks over emotional depth and mutual understanding. Even children casually use this phrase, reflecting how ingrained this idea has become. True love is built on respect and shared values, not instant attraction.

India’s high rate of acid attacks is a grim reflection of how cinematic narratives influence behaviour. Many attacks stem from rejected romantic advances, fuelled by the entitlement cinema often glorifies. When movies depict rejection as an insult to male pride, they contribute to a culture in which women fear the consequences of saying ‘no’. Films must shift from portraying women as prizes to be won and instead show them as autonomous individuals with the right to choose.

A common cinematic trope is the hero drowning his sorrows in alcohol after rejection. This dramatisation presents rejection as a life-altering tragedy, reinforcing unhealthy coping mechanisms. Why should a boy’s life stop because of rejection? Why can’t he focus on personal growth or career aspirations? Instead of glorifying despair, films should portray characters who move on with dignity, promoting resilience and self-respect.

Filmmakers wield immense power in shaping societal attitudes. They can tell stories that celebrate mutual respect, consent, and equality. Imagine films where love is a partnership, rejection is accepted gracefully, and relationships are built on trust. By moving away from toxic persistence and superficial romance, Indian cinema can foster a culture of respect. Hollywood and other industries often depict relationships based on consent and equality. Indian filmmakers can adapt these narratives while maintaining cultural relevance. Stories should inspire positive change, reflecting relationships built on understanding rather than conquest.

By 2043, when the Beta generation comes of age, we have the chance to build a society free from regressive cinematic influences. Filmmakers must lead this transformation by avoiding harmful tropes and promoting empowering narratives. This is a plea to Indian filmmakers: “Stop reinforcing toxic narratives.”

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