Bollywood cinema has undergone a significant transformation in portraying male characters. Traditional depictions of husbands as authoritative figures are being replaced by more progressive, supportive partners who challenge gender stereotypes.
Modern Hindi films showcase men who embrace vulnerability, support their wives' ambitions, and actively work to dismantle patriarchal expectations. These characters represent a refreshing departure from the stoic, controlling husband archetype that dominated Indian cinema for decades.
Contemporary filmmakers are creating male protagonists who understand equality, respect women's choices, and demonstrate emotional intelligence. These progressive portrayals inspire audiences to reconsider traditional gender roles in relationships.
Lakshmikant (Pad Man)
In ‘’Pad Man,’ Lakshmikant (Akshay Kumar) discovers his wife Gayatri (Radhika Apte) using unhygienic cloth during menstruation. The small-town husband becomes determined to provide safe, affordable sanitary products for women across India.
Director R Balki based this film on Arunachalam Muruganantham's real story. Lakshmi faces severe social ostracism, family ridicule, and community shame while pursuing his mission. Despite overwhelming opposition, he never abandons his commitment to women's health and dignity.
Keshav (Toilet: Ek Prem Katha)
‘Toilet: Ek Prem Katha’ presents Keshav (Akshay Kumar), whose newly-wed wife Jaya (Bhumi Pednekar) discovers their home lacks proper sanitation facilities. Instead of expecting his wife to adjust to existing conditions, Keshav takes immediate action.
Director Shree Narayan Singh crafts a narrative where the husband battles family resistance, societal pressure, and bureaucratic obstacles. Keshav refuses to compromise on his wife's dignity and basic rights to sanitation.
Rocky (Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani)
Karan Johar's ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ features Rocky Randhawa (Ranveer Singh) as an emotionally aware partner to intellectual Rani Chatterjee (Alia Bhatt). Rocky breaks the stoic male stereotype by openly expressing love, pain, and vulnerability.
The character supports Rani's independence without feeling threatened by her intelligence or different family background. Rocky demonstrates secure masculinity by celebrating rather than competing with his partner's strengths.
Deepak (Laapataa Ladies)
In Kiran Rao's ‘Laapataa Ladies,’ Deepak (Sparsh Shrivastava) emerges as cinema's green flag husband. The rural character begins as somewhat clueless but demonstrates remarkable growth, empathy, and critical thinking throughout his journey.
When Deepak realizes he brought the wrong bride home, he treats stranger Pushpa/Jaya (Pratibha Ranta) with dignity and patience. His genuine affection for actual wife Phool (Nitanshi Goel) shines through despite limited screen time together.
Veer (Dhoom Dhaam)
‘Dhoom Dhaam’ presents veterinarian Veer (Prateek Gandhi) married to confident Koyal (Yami Gautam). Initially unsettled by his wife's independence and free spirit, Veer undergoes significant personal transformation.
Director Rishab Seth uses this character to satirically examine patriarchal expectations in modern Indian marriages. Veer's journey from insecurity to understanding demonstrates how men can evolve beyond traditional gender roles.
Ashok (Tumhari Sulu)
‘Tumhari Sulu’ features Ashok (Manav Kaul), husband to aspiring radio jockey Sulu (Vidya Balan). Initially apprehensive about his wife's night shift work, Ashok struggles with balancing traditional expectations and supporting her career ambitions.
The comedy-drama explores realistic relationship challenges when women pursue unconventional careers. While Ashok faces internal conflicts about domestic duties, his character shows genuine effort to adapt and support his wife's dreams.
Shardul (Badhaai Do)
‘Badhaai Do’ presents Shardul (Rajkummar Rao) in a unique lavender marriage with Sumi (Bhumi Pednekar). Though not a traditional romantic couple, their relationship demonstrates mutual respect, understanding, and unconditional support.
Shardul, a gay man married to lesbian Sumi to appease families, evolves into a source of strength for both Sumi and her partner Rimjhim (Chum Darang). He courageously stands up for his truth while supporting others' journeys.
These progressive characters represent Bollywood's evolving approach to depicting masculinity and marriage. Modern Hindi cinema increasingly showcases men who embrace vulnerability, support women's independence, and challenge patriarchal norms.
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