EXCLUSIVE: Do Women Really Fight on Set? Kritika Kamra, Shreya Dhanwanthary, and Juhi Babbar Break the ‘Catfight’ Myth
For years, Hollywood and Bollywood have been plagued by the pervasive "catfight" myth, the notion that women in the entertainment industry are inherently competitive and prone to conflict. This trope, often fueled by media sensationalism, paints a picture of actresses constantly vying for the "top spot," engaging in petty squabbles over roles, fashion, or even men. However, three accomplished actresses, Kritika Kamra, Shreya Dhanwanthary, and Juhi Babbar, are challenging this outdated stereotype, sharing their experiences of camaraderie and mutual respect on set.
Kritika Kamra, known for her roles in "Gyaarah Gyaarah" and "The Great Shamsuddin Family", believes that the "catfight" narrative is a tired cliché. In an interview, she emphasized that the women she has worked with have been supportive and collaborative. "I think the politics of the film has to align with yours," Kamra stated, highlighting the importance of a film's message and how it portrays women and different communities. She also appreciates the opportunity to portray real, relatable characters with their own insecurities.
Shreya Dhanwanthary, who gained recognition for her performances in "The Family Man" and "Scam 1992", echoes Kamra's sentiments. Dhanwanthary has spoken about the importance of honesty, spontaneity, and freedom in relationships, extending this philosophy to her professional interactions. She also values chemistry with every single person she is on screen with, and to generate a good relationship by finding the honesty between the two characters and forming the link between the two characters. She acknowledged the struggles she faced as an outsider in the film industry and how the OTT space helped a lot of actors like her.
Juhi Babbar, a renowned film and theatre actress, shares her insights on working with ensemble casts, particularly in women-led stories like "The Great Shamsuddin Family". Babbar emphasized the unique, women-led storytelling in "The Great Shamsuddin Family". Babbar also expressed her view that people are used to seeing action and VFX in films, but she believes that there is still an audience for the old charm of simple and intimate films.
These actresses highlight the importance of challenging preconceived notions and fostering a more accurate representation of women in the industry. They advocate for creating space for female friendship and solidarity, dispelling the myth that women are inherently competitive and catty. They create warm and homely atmospheres on set.
The experiences of Kritika Kamra, Shreya Dhanwanthary, and Juhi Babbar serve as a reminder that the "catfight" trope is not only inaccurate but also damaging. By sharing their positive experiences and advocating for a more supportive and collaborative environment, these actresses are paving the way for a more realistic and empowering portrayal of women in the entertainment industry. They prove that women can work together, support each other, and create meaningful art without resorting to manufactured drama and conflict.
