Singer and vociferous social commentator Sona Mohapatra has once again stood up against Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, this time condemning him for his comment on the big age difference between himself and actress Rashmika Mandanna in their next movie. The furor arose when Khan commented on the rising talk about older male stars being cast opposite very young female co-stars in Bollywood.
Sona Mohapatra Calls Out ‘Toxic Masculinity’
Stepping into social media, Mohapatra criticized Salman’s reaction as the “bhai of toxic masculinity.” She has been speaking out on gender dynamics in Bollywood for a long time, and this recent comment is consistent with her past critiques of the industry’s penchant for casting much older male leads alongside young actresses while pushing aside actresses once they are past a certain age.
The age gap casting issue has been a controversial one in Indian cinema, with many noting that while male actors are still able to secure lead roles well into their fifties and sixties, female performers tend to have their prospects dwindle as they grow older. Mohapatra’s remark revived the controversy, with people debating fairness and representation within the film industry.
Salman’s Stance on the Age Debate
Salman Khan, who owns up his trademark humor and casual demeanor, had debunked the age difference rumors between him and Rashmika Mandanna in their next release. His reaction, however, was not well accepted by critics who feel that such combinations help promote old-school industry norms and give credence to the idea that female actresses are interchangeable while the leading men get to hold center stage for extended periods of time.
Social Media Reacts
After Sona Mohapatra’s comments, social media was divided between those who agreed with her views and those who defended Salman Khan, stating that age differences in films have been there for decades and are not unique to Bollywood. Nevertheless, numerous users indicated that the trend must change and that Bollywood needs to provide equal opportunities to actresses of all ages.
A viewer noted, “Sona is correct! Why does it have to be always a 50+ male hero flirting with a 20-something actress? Bollywood needs to grow up.” Another replied, “People are being picky with their indignation. Hollywood also has age differences, and no one complains.”
The Bigger Debate in Bollywood
This is not the first time that the topic of ageism and gender imbalance in Bollywood has been in the news. Actress Taapsee Pannu, Vidya Balan, and Priyanka Chopra have also talked about the industry’s bias against women aging on screen.
Sona Mohapatra’s scathing commentary has yet again put this on the spotlight, questioning the norms of the industry that have historically influenced casting decisions. While Salman Khan does not take the criticism seriously, the controversy surrounding representation, inclusivity, and merit-based opportunities in Bollywood only rages on.
As the conversation around gender equality in film becomes more robust, it’s only a matter of time before Bollywood learns to change with the times or sticks to its old ways of doing business.
