Jha wants change in cinema

The filmmaker says there needs to be a better representation of women in movies

he stereotypical portrayal of women in cinema can change only if their representation is more in every aspect of film-making, feels producer-director Prakash Jha. The film industry is dominated by men and the portrayal of women on screen depends on the “male gaze” from behind the camera, he said. “It is the male gaze and social gaze which reflect the cinematic gaze. The male gaze from behind the camera reflects how women are portrayed on screen,” Jha said at a panel discussion during the Difficult Dialogues conference on the portrayal of gender in cinema.

He said the representation of women in every aspect of film making – like story-telling, writing, directing and cinematography – is abysmally low. The characters in movies are a representation of observations and experiences in real life, Jha said, adding that cinema is a constant communication with society. “Cinema may not be able to make a change but a constant discussion helps to ensure the issue is not forgotten,” said Jha, who is known for hard-hitting films like Mrityudand, Apaharan and Gangaajal.

On the occasion, Jha revealed that he is working on the script of his new film Satsang, based on religion. “Religion has become an important aspect of socio- political life. It is the biggest business,” he said. However, the filmmaker refused to divulge any further details and said he would speak about it at an appropriate time.