Maa to Mom - The changing face of Bollywood Mothers 
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, May 9, 2009 - 17:54 IST
'Mere Paas Maa Hai'! This line of Shashi Kapoor's from the film Deewar has been the eternal saying in the world of Hindi cinema. However, from the times of Mother India, Bollywood has always portrayed mother as someone who not just faces hardships but also sacrifices the most. This Mother's Day, Bollywood Hungama takes a look at the changing phases of mothers in Hindi films.
The early days Hindi Cinema had onscreen mothers cry, weep, suffer and wait for their death to rid herself of her sorrows. But with changing times, this Bollywood formula has become outdated and is dumped. The role of a mother then went from being feebly weak to ultra strong in the late 80's. She had the power to take it upon herself and get things done on her terms. She took revenge for every injustice done to her.
Somewhere in the late 90's, there was another change. This time it was the proverbial term 'Maa' that underwent a metamorphosis to become the modern 'Mom'. It was then that the Bollywood moms evolved from the flowing drapes of a sari to move on to designer wears. No longer did she fall at the feet of a durga idol praying for salvation and seek justice. These moms moved forward with the new generation and became friends with their children rather than forcing themselves on them.
In early 2000's, single and working mothers also got incorporated into Hindi cinema. Veteran actresses such as Rekha and Kirron Kher, who played single mothers in Koi Mil Gaya and Hum Tum respectively, displayed such attributes with great stance and poise. Even Lara Dutta portrayed the urban single mother in Partner who single-handled managed both her career and home.
Raising the bar for onscreen mothers were actresses like Shabana Azmi, Lillette Dubey and Dimple Kapadia, who've completely shed the misery and helplessness act. They play the mothers who are always available to their children as friends without getting judgmental about their issue but at the same time, also give them space when required. They have also broken the stereotype of the Evil Stepmom (Shabana Azmi in Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd.), proving that today's mother is mature enough to happily accept her 'step children' more openly than ever before.
With time, Hindi cinema's mothers have gone from 'Maa' to 'Mom' and from saris to jeans but they still remain the same at heart. Maa or Mom, whatever you choose to call them, still dote on their sons, still await their daughter's weddings, and still strive for the happiness for her family.
This Mother's Day, Bollywood Hungama salutes all the mothers for their unconditional love and every sacrifice that they've made for the joy of their children.
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Shashi Kapoor to innaugrate IFFI
