EXCLUSIVE: Manisha Koirala opens up on ‘double standards’ in male-dominated industry and says heroes would call the shot; ‘Started rebelling…’

As a seasoned lifestyle expert, I find myself often reflecting on the journey of Manisha Koirala, a renowned actress in the vibrant world of Indian cinema. Over her illustrious career, she has consistently delivered performances that have left critics and audiences alike spellbound.

In a recent, intimate conversation with TopMob, she opened up about the intricate dynamics of a male-dominated industry. She shed light on the unfortunate reality where heroes often held the reins in decision-making processes.

However, Manisha didn’t let these conventions and unjust practices deter her. Instead, she found her voice and began to challenge these norms. Her courage serves as an inspiration for many, reminding us that change is not just possible but essential in paving the way for a more equitable industry.

During an interview with TopMob, Manisha Koirala spoke candidly about the hurdles she encountered as a feminist in a male-dominated profession. Reflecting on her arduous path, she admitted, “It was extremely tough. I despised the double standards and yearned to resist. My desire to rebel stemmed from that. I simply wasn’t content with the status quo.

Check out the full interview right below!

Apart from reminiscing about it, she also mentioned that she was the one responsible for introducing change while producing Mann. She explained, “I was the one who broke the mold when I brought a female makeup artist onto the set of Mann. Typically, only men were allowed to be makeup artists in the union. The hairdresser had to be female. However, this wasn’t always the case in advertisement films. I encountered a woman with exceptional makeup skills. I simply asked, ‘Why can’t she?’

The actress from Heeramandi emphasized that change could indeed occur when someone initiates it. “Once that first step is taken, changes begin to happen. It simply requires someone to set things in motion at first. It didn’t seem fair. It didn’t seem like the heroes should always be in control or have the pay disparity. I began challenging all of that,” she concluded.

In a nod to the industry’s hypocrisy, Manisha pointed out that while smoking and drinking were often portrayed as ‘cool’ or ‘heroic’ behaviors for men, a woman engaging in these activities was met with criticism. She expressed this sentiment by saying, “Back then, smoking and drinking were simply part of being a hero. If a man did it, nobody would bat an eye. But if a woman dared to do the same, she would be harshly judged.

When questioned about experiencing such judgement, she responded by saying, “Yes, I reacted by pushing back and openly expressing myself in return.

In her professional life, Manisha Koirala initially entered Bollywood through Subhash Ghai’s 1991 film Saudagar. Lately, she has been featured in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, where she collaborated with Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, and other notable actors on significant roles.

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2025-01-11 08:56