FR's Top Indian Women-led Films In 2024: Powerful Female Characters We Can't Forget

Image Credits: IMDb

The Indian film industry has long been celebrated for its storytelling, but 2024 brought a new wave of women-led films that truly stole the spotlight. These films not only delivered compelling narratives but also gave us unforgettable female characters who lingered in our minds long after the credits rolled. From quiet defiance to bold resistance, here’s a look at some standout films that celebrated women at their most inspiring.  

1. Jigra – Alia Bhatt (Hindi)

In Jigra, Alia Bhatt shines as a resilient and unyielding protagonist who takes on the overwhelming forces of fate and society. Her character embodies quiet strength, often overlooked in a world that glorifies loud defiance. Fighting against the system to protect her brother while grappling with personal dilemmas, Bhatt delivers an empowering performance. As a fierce sister and a skilled fighter, her character is undoubtedly one of the most memorable of the year.  

2. Bhakshak – Bhumi Pednekar (Hindi)

Indian cinema has seen its fair share of strong journalist characters, but Bhumi Pednekar's portrayal in Bhakshak sets a new standard. Playing Vaishali, a local journalist, Pednekar brings an unmatched intensity as she seeks justice. The film follows her dangerous journey to uncover a dark secret at a Bihar shelter home where young girls are being abused. Her relentless pursuit of truth and justice makes Vaishali a character worth rooting for.  

3. Laapataa Ladies – Pratibha Ranta, Chhaya Kadam, Nitanshi Goel (Hindi)

Laapataa Ladies delivers a heartfelt and poignant story of women navigating unseen struggles. With Pratibha Ranta and Nitanshi Goel as the lost brides, the film beautifully captures their self-discovery journey. Chhaya Kadam’s impactful dialogues and stellar acting add emotional depth, making the story unforgettable. The film’s portrayal of female camaraderie and survival resonates deeply, showcasing how women find strength in solidarity.  

4. Ullozhukku – Parvathy Thiruvothu & Urvashi (Malayalam)  

A masterpiece exploring grief, love, and unspoken bonds, Ullozhukku revolves around two complex women. Parvathy Thiruvothu’s Anju is caught between duty and desire, while Urvashi’s Leelamma depicts the quiet agony of women in loveless marriages. Together, they craft a powerful narrative about how women endure and resist patriarchy in their unique ways. The film raises profound questions about what unites women and how their strength manifests in unexpected moments.  

5. All We Imagine as Light – Kani Kusruti (Malayalam)  

Kani Kusruti delivers a deeply introspective performance in *All We Imagine as Light*, exploring identity and self-worth. Her character's journey of self-realization stands against societal norms that try to box her into predefined roles. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of a woman finding her voice and freedom in a world that often seeks to silence her.  

6. Kottukkaali – Anna Ben (Tamil)  

Anna Ben’s portrayal of Meena in Kottukkaali is one of 2024’s most compelling performances. Meena’s quiet defiance of societal norms challenges the notion that rebellion must always be loud. The film delves into the suffocating grip of patriarchy, where her silence becomes a powerful act of resistance. Anna Ben’s haunting yet empowering portrayal makes Kottukkaali an essential watch for fans of nuanced storytelling.  

2024 has proven to be a landmark year for Indian cinema, with women-led films breaking barriers and introducing us to complex, strong, and unforgettable female characters. From Alia Bhatt as a badass fighter in Jigra to Anna Ben’s silent rebellion in Kottukkaali, these portrayals have redefined female empowerment in Indian cinema. With such powerful stories, these films have set a new benchmark for impactful women characters.