Kriti Sanon Takes a Stand: Bollywood’s Subtle Bias Still Puts Women a Step Behind

Named UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality, the actress calls for everyday fairness—from cars and rooms to on-set respect—and draws strength from her mother’s trailblazing journey

Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon, who made her debut in Heropanti (2014) alongside Tiger Shroff, has quietly risen to become not just a cinematic presence but a vocal advocate for gender equality. Now, she dons a new role outside the screen—Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality with UNFPA India—bringing her passion for women’s rights into the spotlight.

At a recent UNFPA event, Sanon assumed her ambassadorship amidst calls to dismantle societal barriers—including child marriage and son preference. Speaking at the event, she shared powerful reflections on ingrained gender biases in Bollywood. “It hasn’t happened too many times,” she admitted, “but little things—like the male actor getting a better car or a better room… It’s not about the car, but about not making me feel smaller because I’m a woman. Just make it equal.”

She also highlighted how even minor habits on set—such as assistant directors calling female actors first and waiting for males—reinforce unequal norms. “I’ve had to tell them not to do that. The mindset needs to change,” she urged.

Sanon draws much of her conviction from her upbringing. Raised in a home where responsibilities and professional ambition knew no gender, Kriti credits her mother’s bold persistence for lighting her own path. Her mother, she shared, was denied the chance to learn dancing or swimming but fought for education, eventually becoming a professor. “Her first thought for me was, ‘Do whatever you want to. Whatever you dream of, go for it.’ That came from her,” Sanon revealed.

As UNFPA India’s Ambassador, Sanon has committed to a two-year agenda that includes field visits, advocacy campaigns, media outreach, and policy collaboration—all aimed at empowering women and girls across the country.

Her stand aligns with growing concerns over gender disparities in the industry—from unequal pay and limited female-led films, to pervasive stereotypes and hesitance around investing in women-driven narratives. Sanon also praised bold films like Gangubai Kathiawadi for breaking new ground, noting that the industry needs more such projects where “someone has the guts” to push boundaries.