Lipstick under Mere Burkha (2016): Alankarita Srivastava Language: Hindi Plot: Under Mere Burkha, Lipstick follows the lives of four women from different regions of life in a small Indian city. These women are secretly trying for their wishes, struggling with social norms, and are looking for personal liberation in their own way. Why do you see?: Alankrita Srivastava crafts in a raw and immoral manuality, aspirations and a society that tries to suppress them. The film is both bold and powerful.

Director of Raazi (2018): Meghna Gulzar Language: Hindi Raazi told the true story of Sehmat Khan (played by Alia Bhatt), a young Indian woman who marries a Pakistani military officer to spy for India during the 1971 India-Pakistan War. The film shows their courage and determination to protect their country despite facing immense personal challenges. Why see?: Meghna Gulzar’s direction brings a woman’s calm strength and flexibility to a high-din spying mission. Alia Bhatt’s performance is exceptional and depth.

Parachade (2015) Director: Leena Yadav Language: Hindi Plot: Set in rural Rajasthan, Parched examined the lives of four women, who are struggling with issues like patriarchy, social obstacles and their desires. The film follows their personal struggles as they try for freedom, self-expression and dignity. Why see ?: Leena Yadav’s direction brings out the struggle and flexibility of women in a conservative society, which creates a powerful story about women empowerment and is freed from social norms.

The Lunchbox (2013) Director: Ritesh Batra (female-female-enlightened LED) Language: Hindi Plot: Although directed by a male filmmaker, the film’s central character, Ila (Nimrat Kaur), is a strong and independent woman who is navigating her life in Mumbai. The story revolves around an incorrect lunchbox delivery and an unexpected connection that develops between Ila and a single office worker. Why see?: The film catchs the struggle of a woman seeking personal fulfillment and self-values. This is a story about finding love and meaning between the routine of life.

Mat (2017) Director: Ashtar Saeed Language: Hindi Plot: This hard-hitting thriller follows a mother (Raveena Tondon) who seeks justice for a brutal attack on her daughter. As she fights a corrupt system, the film revealed her discovery for vengeance and the painful truth of social apathy. Why see ?: Directed by Ashtar Saeed, Matter addressed sensitive issues such as rape and justice, and the story reflects the mother’s strength in the face of unimaginable trauma.

Queen (2014) Director: Vikas Bahl Language: Hindi Plot: The Story of Queen followed Rani Mehra (Kangana Ranaut), a young woman who leaves a single honeymoon journey in Europe after her marriage. The journey helps him find herself again and embrace his freedom. Why see?: Although a male -directed by a male filmmaker, a strong, confident woman change is a powerful story that empowers women to take charge of their lives and destiny.

Fire (1996) Director: Deepa Mehta Language: Hindi Plot: Fire is a groundbreaking film that examines the prohibited love between two women, Sita and Radha, which is caught in a loving marriage. The film is related to the subjects of sexual awakening, liberation and social decisions to live authentically. Why do you see?: The fearless direction of this forbidden-breaking story of Deepa Mehta created waves and made significant conversations about gender and sexuality in India.

Chandni Bar (2001) Director: Madhur Bhandarkar Language: Hindi Plot: The film follows the story of a young woman, Chandni (Tabu), which is forced to work as a dancer in a seed bar after the sad death of his uncle. The film examines her journey as she fights individual tragedies and tries to make a better life for her son. Why see ?: Madhur Bhandarkar’s direction provides a serious depiction of existence in a rigid world, showing how a woman navigates her struggle with immense power, flexibility and love for her child.