Prolific filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali turns 60 today. The filmmaker is known for making films on a large scale with dreamy sets. But not often is he credited for creating strong female characters in his films. Whether it is Devdas, or Ram Leela or the recently released Gangubai Kathiawadi, in Bhansali's cinematic world women take center stage. On his birthday, we look at the memorable and inspiring women of the SLB universe (All Photos/ Stills from film)
Updated On: 2023-02-24 01:20 PM IST
Priyanka Chopra as Kashibai in Bajirao Mastani
Despite a short screen time, Priyanka stood out as Kashibai in the film that largely centered around the story of Mastani and Peshwa Bajirao. While her character seems predictable in the beginning with time we get to see various layers of the character
Paro and Chandramukhi in Devdas
With Devdas, Bhansali introduced two women who portrayed the emotional side of women beautifully. While Aishwarya played Paro, Madhuri Dixit essayed the role of Chandramukhi in the film that has Shah Rukh Khan as Devdas. On one hand, Paro stands tall and doesn't get overshadowed by her feelings, and on the other, Chandramukhi, despite being ostracized by society, remains loyal to her love
Alia Bhatt as Gangubai in Gangubai Kathiawadi
Alia Bhatt's Gangubai is one of the strongest and fiercest characters coming from Sanjay Leela Bhansali's world. From a madam in a brothel to fighting for the leader of the district, Gangubai's tale is one that inspires generations. Fighting against the psyche of the society, Gangubai stood tall in an era that was largely patriarchal
Deepika Padukone as Leela in Ram Leela
Depsite having a mother who is feared by the town, Deepika as Leela lives a carefree life following her instincts. However, all hell break loose when she falls in love with a man from the opposing community. She follows her heart and faces the repurcussions with bravery
Deepika Padukone as Mastani in Bajirao Mastani
Deepika has managed to play distinct and varied roles in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's world. This is yet another strong character portrayed by Deepika. She plays Mastani, who falls in love with the married Peshwa Bajirao. Despite social opposition, the warrior princess Mastani remains steadfast in her love and proves her worth on the battlefield
Deepika Padukone as Rani Padmaavati in Padmaavat
In what can be called as one of Deepika's finest performance, the film brings out the resilience of the queen in the worst of times. The legendary queen defies stereotypes and challenges societal norms because of her beauty, intelligence, and bravery
Heeramandi is Bhansali's upcoming project. This will mark his first web series and has a stellar cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Sharmin Sehgal, and Huma Qureshi. The series will narrate the story of courtesans
