Women have long been underrepresented in the media. Historically, their voices were either sidelined or confined to stereotypical roles in glossy magazines filled with consumerism and subtle body shaming. While those publications offered some visibility, they often framed men's interests as ‘news’ and women’s issues as ‘lifestyle.’ Today, more than ever, we crave female voices that challenge this imbalance, especially in journalism, where truth, courage, and relentless pursuit define greatness.
In Indian cinema, a handful of powerful female journalist characters have shown us what it truly means to fight for the truth. Whether based on real people or fictionalised heroes, these women are portrayed as bold, independent, and committed to justice. On World Press Freedom Day 2025, we spotlight eight badass women journalists in Indian films who didn’t just cover the story—they became it.
Portrayed by Shreya Dhanwanthary, Sucheta Dalal’s character is based on the real-life journalist and Padma Shri awardee who exposed the Harshad Mehta stock market scam. “She is a strong, bold, independent woman,” said Shreya about the role. Her investigation not only made headlines but also led to major reforms in India’s financial markets.
Adapted from Saba Imtiaz’s novel ‘Karachi, You’re Killing Me!’, the film follows Noor, a young journalist tired of shallow celebrity news. She says she wants to highlight “asli logo ki asli problems.” When she uncovers a dark organ trafficking ring, her story is stolen, yet her moral compass stays firm. Noor is a tribute to ethical journalism.
As a war correspondent covering the Sri Lankan civil war, Jaya Sahni remains determined to unearth political conspiracies. She doesn’t flinch even when her own safety is on the line. Her fearless reporting is a reflection of journalism’s core value: uncovering truth amid chaos.
Meera Gaity, played with grit and attitude, redefines what a woman journalist can be. Swearing, smoking, and never backing down, she is unapologetically herself. When the system fails, Jessica Lal, Meera doesn't just report the injustice, she becomes a part of the fight. ‘Badass’ fits her like a badge of honour.
In ‘Lakshya,’ Preity Zinta plays Romi Dutta, a confident and fearless television journalist. Romi is driven, outspoken, and deeply committed to her profession, often reporting from conflict zones with courage and clarity. She challenges societal norms and pushes her partner, Karan (played by Hrithik Roshan), to find purpose and direction in life.
Raka ditches the glamour of Page 3 journalism and dives deep into India's tribal areas to tell stories that matter. She takes on corporate exploitation and state violence, challenging both society and herself. In every sense, she is a journalist of the people.
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Jaggu, portrayed as sharp and fearless, takes on religious fraud and societal hypocrisy. Her quest for the truth, despite personal and professional hurdles, makes her a standout figure in cinematic journalism. She doesn’t just report—she questions, confronts, and persists.
Initially caught in the dazzle of the celebrity world, Madhavi transforms into a reporter with integrity. She exposes a child abuse scandal and risks her career to stand against corruption. Her journey from naive to brave makes her a memorable trailblazer.
These on-screen journalists represent more than dramatic characters—they echo real-world struggles, hopes, and resistance. They remind us why we need strong, courageous women in media: not just to tell stories, but to challenge the status quo.
On this World Press Freedom Day, let's honour these fictional women who reflect the power of real journalism—and the real women journalists who inspire them.
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