When Smita Patil Spoke About Objectification Of Women In Films

Smita Patil remains a legendary actress and trendsetter in Hindi film industry. The actress is known for her exceptional performances in pathbreaking films like Manthan, Bhumika, Aakrosh, Chakra and Mirch Masala, among others. The actress’ career in the film industry was very short as she left us only at the age of 31.

The late actress, who was known for her outspoken nature and being unapologetic about keeping her opinion on the table, had once spoken about the objectification of women in films. In an interview on Doordarshan, Smita compared male and female actor’s nudity in films and criticized how films were promoted.

Smita had said, “Ek film ko Hindustan ke audience par ye baat force ki gayi hai ki dekhiye ji iss (film) mein toh sex hai. Isme toh aadhe nange shareer hain auraton ke, toh aap film dekhne ke liye aaiye. Ye ek aisi attitude ban gayi hai jo bohot galat hai (A notion is forced on the audience that there is sex in this film. There are semi-nude women in this film so you come and watch it. This attitude is present which is very wrong).”

She added that they won’t show the hero nude as they won’t get anything from that but if they portray the actresses or female artists as nude then more than 100 people will go and watch the film.

Smita Patil’s candid remarks also threw light on the double standards that have long existed in the world of Indian Cinema.

Recently, a clip of the interview was shared on Reddit and it gained applause from the internet users for her unbashed reply. One of the users commented, “The clarity in her thoughts, during the time of misogynist male dominated film industry, is commendable.”

Another user added, “My favourite actress!! Way ahead of her time, does anyone know where i can watch chakra?? My mom suggested it long ago but now I am thinking of watching it after the interview…”

She was married to actor Raj Babbar. She died on December 13, 1986, at the age of 31 due to childbirth complications. More than ten of her films were released after her death.