In the early days of Indian cinema, women were often depicted as submissive and dependent on men. They were portrayed as housewives or mothers whose primary role was to take care of the family.

Mother India (1957) is considered to be a landmark in the portrayal of women in Indian cinema. It tells the story of a strong and independent woman who struggles against poverty and social injustice to raise her children.

Nargis is known for her portrayal of strong and independent female characters in films such as Mother India (1957) and Awara (1951).

Kahaani (2012) is an example of a female-centric film as it revolves around a pregnant woman's search for her missing husband in Kolkata.

The sacrificing mother is a common stereotype in the portrayal of women in Indian cinema. This stereotype depicts women as selfless and devoted to their families, often at the expense of their own happiness.

English Vinglish (2012) is an example of a film that challenges traditional gender roles by depicting a woman who takes English classes to overcome her insecurities and gain confidence.

Kangana Ranaut is known for her portrayal of unconventional and challenging roles in films such as Queen (2013), Tanu Weds Manu (2011), and Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019).

Pink (2016) is an example of a film that addresses the issue of gender-based violence by depicting the story of three women who fight back against a group of men who sexually assault them.

Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016) is an example of a film that explores the complexities of female desire by depicting the stories of four women who break free from societal norms and expectations to pursue their own desires.

Dil Chahta Hai (2001) is an example of a film that challenges the traditional portrayal of masculinity by depicting three friends who break free from societal expectations and explore their own identities.

Mother India (1957) is an example of a film that explores the relationship between a mother and a daughter by depicting the story of a woman who struggles to raise her children in a poverty-stricken village.

Damini (1993) is an example of a film that explores the issue of female infanticide by depicting the story of a woman who fights against her family's decision to kill her unborn daughter.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) is an example of a film that explores the issue of dowry by depicting the story of a man who refuses to accept dowry from his bride's family.

Damini (1993) is an example of a film that explores the issue of sexual harassment by depicting the story of a woman who fights against her boss who sexually harasses her.