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Home > Entertainment News > Television News > Article > Anupamaa to Balika Vadhu TV shows that saw Indian bahus break stereotypes

Anupamaa to Balika Vadhu, TV shows that saw Indian bahus break stereotypes

Updated on: 14 August,2023 10:43 PM IST  |  Mumbai
mid-day online correspondent | Compiled by: Shachi Chaturvedi | shachi.chaturvedi@mid-day.com

Several Indian TV serials have sought to challenge stereotypes by showing strong and independent female characters. Here are a couple of such examples:

Anupamaa to Balika Vadhu, TV shows that saw Indian bahus break stereotypes

In Pic: Serials' Posters

For the longest time, TV shows have been about kitchen politics, but over recent years, they are gradually being put to rest, and things are changing. This comes from women being strong, outspoken, brave, and authoritative, breaking free from the suffering of regressive portrayal. Several Indian TV serials have sought to challenge stereotypes by showing strong and independent female characters. Here are a couple of such examples:
 
Anupamaa: This show follows the story of Anupamaa, a resilient and selfless housewife, as she navigates through life's challenges while balancing her roles as a mother, daughter-in-law, and wife. The show explores her journey of self-discovery and empowerment after her husband's betrayal as she transforms into a strong, independent woman. 
 
Barrister Babu: Bondita, an eight-year-old, was being forced to marry an old man. When the man dies during the wedding, Bondita is expected to perform Sati. To stop this from happening, Anirudh, a lawyer, marries Bondita. Thankfully, the show does not follow a typical stream in which two people married under complex circumstances try to work out their marriage. Instead, Anirudh serves as a mentor for Bondita, and that's a change in narrative.
 
Diya Aur Baati Hum: The show revolved around the journey of Sandhya, a determined young woman, as she aspired to become an IPS officer while also managing her responsibilities as a daughter-in-law in a traditional household. Her husband, Sooraj, a skilled sweetmaker, stood by her side, breaking societal norms. The show highlighted their love, challenges, and sacrifices, inspiring audiences with its portrayal of empowerment and family values. 
 
Balika Vadhu: Set in rural Rajasthan, the show highlights the societal issues surrounding child marriage, education, and gender roles. Anandi navigates the complexities of her marital life and strives to empower herself.
 
Kumkum Bhagya- While the show follows a traditional soap opera format, it portrays the female lead, Pragya, as a strong and determined woman who navigates through various challenges while standing up for her beliefs. With unwavering dedication and intelligence, Pragya establishes herself as a thriving businesswoman, showcasing her business acumen and innovative ideas. The show is now helmed by the next generation as the lead actors quit, but it set out to relay a strong message.
 
With progressive content becoming more popular, Indian television and the bahus are sure not the same anymore, and for good!




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