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Last Updated 15.02.2025 | 3:18 PM IST
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Manisha Koirala opens up about ageism and gender bias in Bollywood: “Ageism impacts women a lot more than men”

en Bollywood News Manisha Koirala opens up about ageism and gender bias in Bollywood: “Ageism impacts women a lot more than men”

Manisha Koirala recently shared her thoughts on ageism in the film industry. In an honest discussion, she revealed that she frequently faces comments about her age, with many calling her “buddhi” (old). She believes this reflects the industry's obsession with youth.

Manisha Koirala opens up about ageism and gender bias in Bollywood: “Ageism impacts women a lot more than men”

Koirala, with her successful Bollywood career, addressed the struggles faced by older women actors who are often overlooked due to their age. In an interview with Free Press Journal, the Heeramandi actor stressed the importance of changing mindsets and advocated for more significant roles for older women in films. She pointed out that ageism is not just a problem in the entertainment industry but a societal issue that requires attention.

She stated, “Whether in the industry or otherwise, ageing is an issue with women. We get shamed. I’ve never heard any troll telling a male figure that he’s become old. But a lot of women are trolled. It’s like looking down upon age. Ageism impacts women a lot more than it impacts men.”

Recalling an experience of being excluded during a roundtable conversation, Manisha shared, “I was sidelined by a group for a discussion, and the reason they gave was, ‘Oh, it was for a certain age group.’ I asked, ‘If a male colleague in the same age group or an older co-actor was part of the project, would he have been excluded? Would he have been left out of the conversation?’ Not really. I’ve seen this happen in at least two or three roundtable discussions. I was excluded because of ageism. It does affect us. Suddenly, older co-actors are not wanted, but older actresses seem to be a problem.”

Talking about the misconceptions surrounding women actors over 50, Manisha said, “We need to be torch-bearers to show it to the world and to ourselves that, after 50, we can still rock. We can still lead a phenomenal life. We can still be good in our profession. We can still have a very happy, fulfilled and healthy life. As long as I’m alive, I want to work, and I want to be healthy. I want to look good and that’s my motto.”

She went on to explain, “Lots of people think ‘Buddhi ho gayi hai, what kind of work can she do? ‘or ‘Let’s give her only a mother’s role or a sister’s role’. But women can do kick-ass roles. They can be badasses, full of life and fire. So many actresses before me have done that and I also want to do that. I still have fire in my belly. I still have a hunger to do more. I want to keep growing as an artist and age is just a number. 50 is just a number. And that won’t stop me. That shouldn’t stop anyone.”

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Manisha Koirala on the changing times in cinema, “Pehle achhe gaane hote the, abhi woh missing hai”


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