From ‘Mentalhood’ to ‘Nil Battey Sannata’, Indian cinema has offered nuanced portrayals of motherhood; sometimes it’s complex or emotional and often underappreciated. These films don’t just tell stories; they hold up a mirror to the countless invisible sacrifices made by mothers every day. As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s time to revisit how onscreen mothers reflect real-life resilience, care, and the emotional labour often taken for granted.
In ‘Secret Superstar’, we see a mother silently challenge patriarchy so her daughter can chase her musical dreams. She doesn’t make grand speeches, but her actions speak volumes. It’s a reminder of the quiet rebellion many women take on behind closed doors, fighting not for themselves, but for their children’s future.
In ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’, the stakes are even higher. Based on a true story, the film portrays a mother waging an international legal battle for the custody of her children. It’s an emotionally charged reminder that motherhood doesn’t stop at borders or laws, it’s a lifelong commitment that often demands everything.
Films like ‘English Vinglish’ and ‘The Lunchbox’ explore a subtler dimension, the isolation many mothers face despite being surrounded by family. These characters show that motherhood, while revered, often becomes a role so familiar that its emotional and physical demands are overlooked.
Sridevi’s character in ‘English Vinglish’ juggles housework, caregiving, and emotional support, all while feeling dismissed due to her lack of English fluency. It’s a poignant reflection of how women’s work—especially mothers’—is undervalued in both public and private spaces.
These cinematic stories highlight a crucial issue: the normalization of mothers’ sacrifices. From managing homes to shaping futures, maternal labour whether physical, emotional, or mental is often seen as a ‘natural’ duty, not something that deserves recognition or rest.
In real life, as in film, mothers take on countless roles: teacher, caregiver, protector, provider, and emotional anchor. And yet, much of their work remains invisible, expected, and unappreciated.
A Mother's Day reminder
Mother’s Day isn’t just about flowers or phone calls. It’s a moment to reflect on how much mothers give of themselves—often without acknowledgment. As cinema so beautifully reminds us, their love is seismic yet silent, tender yet tenacious.
Let’s celebrate not only the countless things mothers do, but also the remarkable women they are. Gratitude shouldn’t be reserved for a single holiday or a sentimental moment on social media. Instead, it should be woven into each day of our lives through small gestures, kind words, and genuine appreciation. Because mothers deserve to feel valued every day.
