Published Paper Details:

In recent years, the Indian film industry has produced numerous movies that tackle pressing gender issues, shedding light on women's independence, sexual assault, and empowerment. This research paper examines the portrayal of gender issues in the Indian film industry, focusing on the 2020 Bollywood film "Thappad," directed by Anubhav Sinha and starring Taapsee Pannu. Recent years have seen a surge in films that address pressing gender issues, highlighting themes of women's independence, sexual assault, and empowerment. Movies such as "Queen," "Pink," "Hidden Figures," "Bandit Queen," and "Begum Jaan" have depicted these themes through narratives that showcase women's struggles and triumphs. "Thappad" stands out for its poignant exploration of domestic abuse and gender dynamics. The film centers on a single slap that shatters the seemingly perfect life of the protagonist, Amrita, and delves into the broader ramifications of this act on her and the women around her. By presenting the experiences of characters from diverse backgrounds, "Thappad" exposes the pervasive nature of domestic violence and challenges societal norms that undermine women's independence and self-respect. This paper argues that the film's powerful message and nuanced portrayal contribute significantly to the ongoing discourse on gender equality in contemporary cinema.