The event will honor remarkable women from the region for their contributions in various fields, and it will feature Bollywood stars like Zarine Khan, Mugdha Godse, Malaika Arora Khan, and Karisma Kapoor, who will entertain and receive awards.
We explore the diverse perspectives of four more Bollywood icons from different generations who will be attending the event in a week. They discuss topics such as the event itself, women’s rights, and their industry views.
What, in your opinion, makes someone eligible for a Gr8! Women award?
NEELAM: A woman’s perspective, her societal contributions, and her overall achievements.
GAUHAR: It’s not just career success, important as it is, but also giving back to society and setting a good example. Performing for such an accomplished audience is an honor.
ANUSHKA: Women who make significant progress in their fields deserve the Gr8 Women Achievers Award for setting examples and ensuring their efforts aren’t overlooked.
SANJEEDA: Excelling in whatever field you choose, whether as a doctor, teacher, or actor, makes you deserving.
Should there be more events recognizing women’s achievements?
NEELAM: Definitely! More events should celebrate women’s achievements, and I’m proud to be part of these awards.
ANUSHKA: We need more such events to empower women who hesitate to step out of their comfort zones.
Who is/was your female role model, and why?
GAUHAR: My mother is my role model. She raised us five children alone while my father worked abroad for 14 years. I’m grateful and aspire to be like her.
ANUSHKA: My mother, Anu Ranjan, is my role model. She believes women can achieve more with the right support and has tirelessly helped women in need.
SANJEEDA: My mother shaped who I am today. She’s my best friend and the reason for the person I’ve become. Our upbringing defines us.
In Bollywood’s male-dominated industry, do women get deserved recognition? Are times changing?
NEELAM: The industry has evolved, but our world is male-dominated. However, women are achieving great success.
GAUHAR: Progress is evident. Women now have stronger roles, like Vidya Balan in Kahaani and Priyanka Chopra in Barfi!
ANUSHKA: Although perceptions remain, there is progress in the roles women play.
SANJEEDA: In television, I don’t feel it’s male-dominated. Movies like Kahaani demonstrate changing times.
Who do you think has achieved the most in Bollywood?
NEELAM: Vidya Balan has carved a unique niche, focusing on acting over glamour.
GAUHAR: Success is subjective. It’s about happiness in your work. Everyone’s achieved so much.
ANUSHKA: Sushmita Sen.
SANJEEDA: Many actresses have achieved greatly. Kareena Kapoor, despite her background, has accomplished a lot.
Are “woman-centric” films condescending? Should a film just be a film?
NEELAM: It’s been a male-dominated industry historically.
GAUHAR: “Women-centric” is partial. Films with women leads in Hollywood aren’t labeled as such. We should learn from them.
ANUSHKA: Focus on the progress and appreciation these films receive, not the label.
SANJEEDA: A film is entertainment, not defined by gender. It should remain so.
Do recent events signal a turning point for women’s rights in South Asia?
NEELAM: I hope so. Media awareness has highlighted these issues, and I hope for change.
GAUHAR: Change is distant. Education and respect for women are crucial for change.
ANUSHKA: The public and media outcry shows intolerance for such events. Mindset changes at home are essential.
SANJEEDA: These crimes are longstanding. Awareness isn’t new, but protection and caution are vital.
What projects are you currently working on?
GAUHAR: I’m part of Bollywood’s first musical, Zangoora- the Gypsy Prince, with over 850 performances.
ANUSHKA: I’ve signed with Nadiadwala, but details are under wraps.
SANJEEDA: Look out for my upcoming show on Zee, having worked with Sahara 1.
How does it feel to be attending an event in Dubai?
NEELAM: It’s wonderful to be part of the awards in Dubai, my favorite, culturally rich place.
GAUHAR: Performing in Dubai feels great; it’s like a second home, rich in culture.
SANJEEDA: I love dancing and Dubai is a favorite. I’ll enjoy shopping and sightseeing post-event.
david@khaleejtimes.com
