Changes in the representation of women in cinema: Badhan
For a long time, the portrayal of women in Bangla cinema followed a particular pattern – where female characters were often shown as limited, ornamental, or one-dimensional.
However, times are changing, and so are the language of cinema and the perspectives of audiences.
Actress Azmeri Haque Badhan highlighted these changes, as she continues to make a strong presence both on the big screen and on OTT platforms.
According to Badhan, a positive transformation has been noticeable in Bangladesh’s film industry in the post-COVID era. She believes that a variety of stories are now being explored, and audiences are responding positively.
Not only locally, but Bangladeshi films are also gaining recognition at international film festivals, which is a significant indicator of the industry’s progress.
Cinema is no longer confined to traditional theaters; with the expansion of digital platforms, it is now reaching a global audience.
Although Bangladesh’s presence on international platforms like Netflix is still limited, Badhan remains optimistic.
Her film ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’ has already found space on international platforms.
Similarly, projects like ‘Nonajoler Kabbo’ and ‘Master’ are also striving to reach global audiences.
She believes that despite existing challenges, Bangladeshi cinema will soon establish a stronger presence on the world stage.
Addressing the concern that films made for international awards often overlook local audiences, Badhan disagrees. She believes this gap is not entirely true, as audience-friendly films are also being produced.
The success of Eid-released films supports this claim. She is hopeful that, in the future, internationally acclaimed films will also become more accessible and appealing to general audiences.
Speaking about the portrayal of female characters, Badhan clearly states that change has begun.
Films like ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’ and ‘Guti’ present complex, psychological female characters that challenge conventional norms.
Even in ‘Pressure Cooker’, the character played by NazifaTushi adds a new dimension by stepping beyond traditional portrayals of women.
However, she also expresses dissatisfaction that women are still often presented as mere ‘ornaments’ in many commercial films.
In this regard, she praises filmmaker Raihan Rafi for setting new examples through women-centric stories and distinctive storytelling approaches.
Although Badhan began her career in television, she has rediscovered herself on the big screen.
She admits that earlier she worked mainly for financial reasons, but through ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’, she developed a deep passion for acting.
However, the lack of roles that match her age and experience remains a significant challenge.
Overall, it can be said that a positive shift has begun in the representation of women in Bangla cinema.
While there is still a long way to go, this change is expected to expand further through new narratives, gender-conscious characters, and bold storytelling-just as Badhon hopes.
