In an exclusive and engaging panel discussion at ‘The Hollywood Reporter India’s - Women in Entertainment: Power List 2025’, held on March 21st at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, renowned personalities from the industry came together to share their insights. At the event, Hook had the exclusive opportunity to meet with some stellar women, including Tejasswi Prakash, Aditi Rao Hydari, Tillotama Shome, Parvathy Thiruvothu and many more.
The event was also graced by celebrated figures like Kiran Rao, Aditi Rao Hydari, Janhvi Kapoor and Guneet Monga, with author and journalist Anupama Chopra moderating the discussion. The conversations highlighted the importance of authenticity and audience connection in the entertainment industry.
Panelists reflected on their careers, discussing the delicate balance between commercial cinema and meaningful content that resonates with a broader audience. The discussion shed light on the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry, emphasizing the need for resilience and composure in the face of criticism.
At the event, Hook had an exclusive chat with actor Neha Dhupia for our series - ‘What’s the Question? - Rapid Edition’. The series explores the essence of being a celebrity - the journey to stardom, living under the constant lens of the paparazzi, women in Bollywood, and the impact on the consumers of celebrity content.
Neha Dhupia’s shout-out to her mother
When asked to name a powerful, resilient woman, Dhupia replied, "I could turn around and state something cliché with this one, that one, but for me, it's the most obvious choice—my mom. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her.”
The actor also stated that she's "grateful for the confidence, determination, and hustle" her mother has instilled in her. "Every woman here today could probably say the same about their mothers, and that would be perfectly valid. If I can do even half of what my mother has done for me and with my daughter, I’d consider myself a winner," she added.
Tired of seeing women as ‘number two’
Dhupia was also asked what that one stereotype about female characters is that she was tired of seeing as an audience member and even hearing as an actor in the industry. The 'Bad Newz' actor replied, "One of the simplest but most frustrating things is always being number two on the credit roll. Even with all the changes in storytelling and narratives, women in films often get second billing. Even on call sheets, we are listed as 'character number two.”
She did, however, insist that changing the narrative in Bollywood was possible if women stopped believing they're lesser than anybody. Dhupia said, "We need to stop giving anyone the space to believe that we are lesser than others in the room. For me, it’s about setting boundaries and having the confidence to walk away from situations that don’t align with my values. Not everyone can do it, but I have. And I believe that setting those standards for yourself is key. Also, proving your point or having a voice doesn’t mean you need to be the loudest in the room or the best dressed. You can leave a lasting impact by being true to yourself."
Ageing and Bollywood
You've been in the industry for years. How do you feel about ageing in Bollywood?
Dhupia said, "I'm in my 40s now, and I realize how much I have evolved. In my 20s, I wasn’t this confident. I wish I had this level of self-awareness back then, combined with the energy I had at that age!” “But I also understand why your 20s come with layers of self-doubt and so much self-talk. Now, I don’t hesitate. I don’t watch my Ps and Qs because I know who I am. I will consistently be this person while continuing to work on being even better." She added.
