Shabana Azmi says heroes need to be ready to ‘play second fiddle’ to women to end pay disparity, compliments Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone

“The scenario has improved vastly. Earlier, it was only left to parallel cinema to give women substantial roles. Today, look at the roles Alia Bhatt and Deepika Padukone are doing in mainstream films. I believe if change has to happen, it should reflect in mainstream cinema, or you are preaching to the converted.

“That there are so many women on the set today in positions of authority is a good sign. Since there are so many female writers now, I hope it will lead to more women-centred content,” she was quoted. When asked about the issue of pay disparity, which several female stars have consistently spoken about in the past, the 73-year-old actor said, “It will (change) when women-centric films start making money at the box office. Heroes need to be ready to play second fiddle like women did all these years.”

According to the report, the UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF) will mark her 50 years in the film industry with a special programme to celebrate her career. On May 10, Azmi will also be honoured with the Freedom of City of London Award by the City of London Corporation, in recognition of her contribution to Indian cinema and as a “champion of women’s rights.”

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