In an inspiring and refreshingly honest conversation, Pinkvilla brought together five trailblazing women of Indian cinema for its latest Women Who Lead roundtable. Held at the stylish Hyatt Centric, Juhu, the discussion featured Prajakta Koli (MostlySane), Divya Dutta, Kirti Kulhari, Sayani Gupta, and Rasika Dugal. Hosted with warmth and curiosity, the nearly hour-long chat goes far beyond typical celebrity interviews. These actresses opened up about breaking stereotypes, navigating Bollywood’s challenges, embracing sisterhood, and championing real conversations around consent, periods, and personal growth.
The panel didn’t just share career wins—they tackled societal myths head-on, laughed through relatable anecdotes, and left viewers with a clear message: women in cinema (and life) are redefining strength, leadership, and support systems every single day.
Busting Stereotypes: Empathy Isn’t Weakness, and Jealousy Isn’t Inevitable
The conversation kicked off by dismantling the idea that “women are extremely emotional leaders.” Kirti Kulhari firmly pushed back, calling women’s decision-making “empathetic” rather than overly emotional. “We think through others’ perspectives,” she explained, highlighting how this approach brings “absolute strength” and multitasking superpowers to the table. Sayani Gupta added that empathy shouldn’t be a woman’s burden alone—anyone can lead with heart.
Rasika Dugal shared her experience producing a film with an all-male team, noting the collaborative, bias-free environment that proved the industry is evolving. The group also tackled the persistent myth that “women are horrible drivers.” Prajakta Koli laughed as she recalled driving trucks, scooters, and everything in between, often overtaking hesitant men on the road. Divya Dutta recounted her mother confidently driving the family from Punjab to Delhi after missing a train, an act that built her own driving courage. The panel agreed that road aggression is more often a “man thing” in cities like Delhi, turning the stereotype on its head.
On jealousy and gossip? The women were united in calling it a tired narrative. Sayani noted that competition often feels more “childish” from male colleagues, while Rasika celebrated real sisterhood—sharing dry-cleaner tips and dermatologist recommendations in the women’s washroom. Divya emphasized how talking problems through with other women instantly makes them feel smaller. “We celebrate together,” she said, beautifully reframing rivalry as support.
The Balancing Act: Home, Career, and the Myth of “Having It All”
Working women still face the unfair question: Can you really handle both home and career? The panel unanimously called this expectation outdated and unrealistic. Multitasking isn’t a myth—it’s reality for countless women, whether they’re maids juggling jobs and households or actresses managing shoots and family duties. Rasika pointed out that society, not individuals, sets these impossible standards.
Prajakta reflected on her journey from YouTuber to actress, learning to stop people-pleasing after years of over-mingling on sets. Kirti admitted she once felt responsible for everyone’s happiness (“Let them fight, man. It is not my responsibility”) and is now focusing on her own peace. Rasika described the lightness she feels after dropping agenda-driven networking and simply treating people as humans.
Candid Conversations on Consent, Periods & Breaking Taboos
The discussion turned deeply personal and necessary when addressing consent and marital rape. Divya drew from a childhood memory of seeing a distressed bride, stressing that marriage must include comfort and respect. Rasika shared how her shows on the topic prompted real women to reach out with their stories. The group agreed that cinema has a powerful role in normalizing consent and educating audiences.
First-period stories brought both laughter and empathy. Prajakta’s mother had prepared her with pads, preventing panic. Kirti recalled thinking she was dying at age 11. Divya hid in the school toilet, while Rasika celebrated hers in a library—only to later battle period pain. Sayani admitted she once “manifested” getting her period just to feel like a woman. The panel celebrated how openly talking about periods is slowly eroding old taboos of secrecy and shame.
They also touched on swearing as emotional release and cultural expression. Divya even learned Delhi-style abuses for a role, proving that language can be both raw and revealing.
Fun & Insightful Quick-Fire Round: What Makes a Woman Unstoppable?
The roundtable ended on a lighter, equally revealing note with rapid-fire questions that captured the group’s wit and wisdom:
- A woman is done with nonsense when she stops talking.
- The fastest way to annoy a woman? Lie or don’t listen.
- Woman’s superpower? Owning who she is and multitasking like a boss.
- If women ruled the world, the first thing they’d cancel? Uncomfortable underwear and bras.
- A confident woman? Speaks her mind without needing to prove anything.
- What attracts in another woman? Genuineness and showing up for herself.
Other gems included “villain origin story starts with ‘there was a man’” and the universal truth that “I’m on my way” usually means you’re still getting ready—or dealing with drama.
Why This Roundtable Matters
From debunking myths to sharing vulnerable stories, Women Who Lead isn’t just another celebrity chat—it’s a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and the quiet revolutions happening in Indian cinema. These five women—each with powerful roles, unique journeys, and unapologetic voices—are proof that sisterhood, empathy, and courage are reshaping Bollywood and beyond.
Prajakta Koli brings digital-era honesty, Divya Dutta veteran wisdom, Kirti Kulhari fierce strength, Sayani Gupta thoughtful versatility, and Rasika Dugal nuanced grace. Together, they show that the future of cinema isn’t just brighter because of women—it’s being built by them.
Watch the full Pinkvilla roundtable here: YouTube
In a world that still loves to box women in, conversations like this remind us: the strongest leaders don’t fit the mold—they break it. And these women are leading the charge.
