Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has recently challenged the portrayal of feminism in Indian cinema, specifically targeting the 2012 film Jab Tak Hai Jaan. In a frank discussion on Be A Man, Yaar!, Akhtar criticized a specific dialogue from the film, arguing that it reflects a superficial understanding of female empowerment.
Directed by the iconic Yash Chopra, Jab Tak Hai Jaan starred Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, and Anushka Sharma. Despite its success at the box office, the film is now facing scrutiny for its depiction of female characters.
Akhtar’s Concerns
The dialogue in question features a female character saying, “I will marry you after I sleep with one man from every nationality in the world.” Akhtar took issue with this line, questioning its portrayal of modern women. He remarked, “Why would you go through so much effort? Are you truly empowered and modern? There’s no need to make such exaggerated efforts. There are plenty of nationalities in the world; don’t get caught up in that.”
Critique of Superficial Empowerment
Akhtar’s critique centers on what he sees as an attempt to portray female empowerment in a superficial manner. He expressed disappointment in how the film approached the concept of empowerment, suggesting that it misrepresents what it means to be a modern woman. He commented, “What does this dialogue even mean? It seems out of place in a Yash Chopra film. The portrayal of an empowered woman appears to be misunderstood and exaggerated.”
Yash Chopra’s Legacy and Film’s Reception
Jab Tak Hai Jaan was Yash Chopra’s last film before his passing in 2012. Despite its emotional storytelling and strong cast, the film has come under criticism for its treatment of female characters. Javed Akhtar’s remarks highlight ongoing discussions about the representation of women in Bollywood and the need for more authentic portrayals of empowerment.
As the film industry evolves, such discussions emphasize the importance of moving beyond superficial depictions to provide a more genuine representation of women and their roles in society.
