How Dangal Movie Challenges Gender Stereotypes
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As part of Blogchatter’s #CauseAChatter prompt, I was asked to write about a movie that mirrors a crucial social cause. Therefore with the ongoing protests against sexual harassment of female wrestlers, naturally, my thoughts went to the pathbreaking Hindi film “Dangal” which sought to change traditional gender stereotypes.
The premise of Dangal
The movie “Dangal” addresses gender stereotypes in several ways, highlighting their impact on individuals and society as a whole. Here are some ways the film explores and challenges gender stereotypes:
Dangal movie challenges Gender stereotypes by contesting the idea of Wrestling as a Male Sport
Notably, the film addresses the perception that wrestling is primarily a male sport. Mahavir Singh Phogat , the father and and an ex-wrestler, challenges this notion by training his daughters, Geeta and Babita, to become professional wrestlers. By showcasing their talent and success in a traditionally male-dominated field, the movie “Dangal ” challenges the notion that certain sports are exclusive to one gender.
Societal expectations of Women’s Roles
Secondly , “Dangal” portrays the societal expectations placed on women regarding their roles and behavior. Wrestling was an unconventional sport for girls. Therefore Geeta, Babita and their Father face resistance ,ridicule and criticism from their community for participating in wrestling. The film challenges the stereotype that women should conform to traditional gender roles and emphasizes that they should have the freedom to pursue their passions.
Physical Strength and Capability
Furthermore, the movie Dangal challenges the stereotype that women are physically weaker than men. Through rigorous training and determination, Geeta and Babita prove that they possess the strength and capability to compete at the highest level in wrestling. The film highlights that physical abilities should not be limited by gender, debunking the myth that men are inherently stronger than women.
Balancing Femininity and Athleticism
The movie “Dangal” explores the idea that femininity and athleticism are not mutually exclusive. Geeta and Babita struggle with societal expectations regarding their appearance and femininity as they pursue wrestling. The film challenges the notion that women must choose between being feminine and participating in physically demanding activities. It further highlights that women can excel in any field while embracing their identity and femininity.
Dangal movie challenges Gender stereotypes by breaking Gender Norms
The movie Dangal challenges gender stereotypes , that are deeply ingrained in society and hence dictate women’s behavior, choices, and aspirations. It portrays the sisters Geeta Phogat and Babita Phogat as strong, determined, and ambitious individuals who challenge societal expectations. Their journey serves as a powerful example of defying gender norms and pursuing personal goals. They inspire viewers to question and challenge gender stereotypes in their own lives. Subsequently, the two women wrestlers once welcomed by wolf whistles when stepping into the arena , become a source of great pride and give identity to their village.
Through its storyline and character development, “Dangal” effectively addresses and challenges gender stereotypes prevalent in Indian society. The film emphasizes the importance of breaking free from restrictive gender roles and promoting equal opportunities for all. It encourages viewers to question and challenge societal norms that limit individuals based on their gender. It thus promotes a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
Not only does Dangal challenges gender stereotypes, but it also highlights other social causes worth mentioning. Some key aspects of the film that contribute to its promotion of a social cause are:
Women Empowerment
“Dangal” tells the inspiring true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita Phogat, who become successful wrestlers despite societal expectations and gender stereotypes. The movie showcases the immense potential of girls and women in a traditionally male-dominated sport and encourages the idea that women can achieve great heights when given equal opportunities.
Parental Support and Belief
Even today, particularly in rural India, couples who cannot produce a male child are looked down as being less fertile or having problems. Despite social pressure, “Dangal” portrays Mahavir Singh Phogat as a supportive father who believes in his daughters’ abilities and dreams. His famous dialogue – “Hamari Chhoriyaan chhoron se kam hain ke “, meaning “Are our daughters any less than our boys,” made my heart soar.
The film showcases the positive impact of parental support, which is crucial for any child’s development, regardless of gender. It encourages parents to break away from societal norms and nurture their children’s talents and ambitions.
Education and Sports
The movie emphasizes the significance of education and sports as means of empowerment. It demonstrates how pursuing sports can provide opportunities for personal growth, discipline, and empowerment. Additionally, “Dangal” shows how education plays a vital role in shaping a person’s worldview and breaking down societal barriers.
Dangal movie challenges gender stereotypes by addressing Patriarchy
The film addresses the issue of patriarchy, highlighting the discrimination and prejudices faced by girls and women in Indian society. It sheds light on the challenges faced by the Phogat sisters and their father as they navigate the rigid patriarchal norms. By showcasing these struggles, the movie encourages viewers to question and challenge such oppressive social structures.
The movie’s inspirational storyline and strong performances resonate with audiences, creating awareness and sparking conversations about gender equality and women’s empowerment. It serves as a source of motivation for individuals facing similar societal obstacles and encourages them to challenge and overcome gender-based limitations.
Overall, “Dangal” promotes a social cause by challenging gender norms, advocating for women’s empowerment, and encouraging equal opportunities for all. It inspires viewers to rethink traditional gender roles and encourages them to support and uplift girls and women in society.
This post is powered by Blogchatter’s initiative #CauseAChatter where we take up social causes.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Zariya Healings.
Which movie champions or highlights a social issue for you?
28 responses
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Dangal is an inspirational movie. More so as it is based on the real lives of the wrestlers. Without any gender bias the parents encourage the girls and see how they flourish. My daughter is not a wrestler but she surely is a fighter.
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Lot of credit goes to you for her being a fighter.
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Dangal is a very interesting and inspiring movie. There are so many things to take from it and I agree with you it does challenge gender stereotypes.
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I remember writing a blog post on Dangal movie. It is truly an inspiring movie with many takeaways. Thank you taking me down the memory lane. I feel like watching it again.
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Dangal was inspirational, however the real life scenario has changed the perception. The women still have to prove their worth and fight with men.
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Dangal is one such movie which every parent and every child should watch. No sport, no activities in this world are meant only for men and women are equally talented and perhaps sometimes more than men in various segments of life. Women empowerment is not just about talking on it but to set true examples like Mahavir Singh Phogat and push the girl childs to be independent and successful in life
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Dangal is definitely a watch movie, the basic fact that girls are not less than boys is a tag line of this movie. Though city side people have opened up to the equality of girls and boys yet villages still require more such movies to come out of their backward thinking.
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This was one movie I have watched four times. And every time I watch I feel proud to be a woman. The movie storyline is amazing.
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wow, that is truly a fulfilling way of talking about Dangal movie had so many messages that would allow society to rethink the stereotyped attitude. lovely post.
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Dangal was a game changer because a lot of people identified with it. Fathers and daughters. Has it really made an impact at the rural level – not sure. It would take a lot many more Dangals to do that. There is a foot in the door at least.
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Totally agree Preeti… Dangal is an inspirational movie and breaks many many stereotypes. It is a must watch for children I feel and esp. like mine who are so lazy to take part in any physical activity or sport… hahaha!
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Total agree, Preeti… Dangal movie beautifully portrays how individuals can break free from these constraints, regardless of their gender, and excel in a domain traditionally dominated by men. “Dangal” undoubtedly offers a powerful message about equality and the importance of pursuing one’s passions without limitations.
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Dangal challenged the stereotypes very well. I feel it worked because it showed a man who did not think much of his daughters but realized that they were as good and trained them. No one was perfect or larger than life.
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One of the most important aspect of Mahavir Phogat was realising the talent of his daughters and pushing them to train to become wrestlers. Guidance and a changing society, both are crucial. This movie was so motivating for parents as well as young girls.
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Your analysis of the movie “Dangal” is exceptional! You have eloquently captured the film’s powerful exploration of gender stereotypes and its emphasis on women’s empowerment. Your review beautifully highlights the movie’s key themes, including challenging societal expectations, breaking gender norms, and the importance of parental support and education. Your insightful review will surely inspire others to watch this impactful film and promote meaningful conversations about gender equality. Well done!
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Women have to fight to reach for a better place for themselves. Our society is based on male chauvinism. Movies like Dangal awaken women’s zeal to rise and shine.
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It was a good movie. I had watched it with my father and he has loved every bit of it too
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Dangal was an incredible movie…a must watch. Bollywood movies are hardly made in this genre. And I love watching movies that challenge stereotypes.
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Oh yes! I really enjoyed watching it.
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I agree, Dangal is truly an inspiring story, especially the Dad’s. He is a role model to follow.
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I loved this movie. Yes, Dangal confronts societal expectations and norms. By highlighting the talents and achievements of female wrestlers, Dangal advocates for gender equality and the empowerment of women to pursue their passions beyond traditional boundaries.
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I have seen Dangal movie, and I really like that the filmmakers have beautifully pulled off the real essence of the movie. It’s true previously certain sports were regarded only for males but now a days we see many positive changes.
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Dangal is an inspiring one of its kind movie and one of my favorites too. The movie challenges gender stereotypes, emphasizing on women’s capabilities and breaking free from societal expectations. I like the way you have linked the movie to the current scenario faced by the women wrestlers.
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Gender stereotyping is something that still needs more light to be shed to be not followed, the moview clearly challenges stereotyping and brings awareness to audience.
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There is a lot to learn from the movie ‘Dangal’. It’s inspiring for both the parents and the kids. You have mentioned everything so well and bringing awareness to the readers via this blog post.
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What a worthy analogy doc, I myself found the movie so inspiring and thispost is also an ideal release for fathers day dear
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All your points are well made. The story itself is inspiring at many levels like overcoming stereotypes, not forgetting to work hard and not letting success turn your head. And amazing acting by the cast too. Great pick for the prompt!
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I completely agree with you. Dangal was an excellent film for many reasons.
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