Veteran Bollywood actor Madhuri Dixit, with over four decades in the entertainment industry, has opened up about the persistent challenges of ageism and sexism that women in the film industry continue to face. Speaking ahead of the release of her upcoming film *Maa Behen*, Dixit highlighted how societal scrutiny over appearance, age, and personal choices remains deeply ingrained, often overshadowing professional achievements.
In an interview with *Mid-Day*, Dixit reflected on the nature of fame and the unnecessary judgments women encounter. She pointed out that people frequently make personal comments about physical changes, such as weight gain or greying hair, without considering the individual’s circumstances or happiness. "There is sexism and ageism everywhere," she stated. "Even when you meet people after a long time, they make personal comments like, ‘You have become so fat. Your hair has become so grey.’ But one cannot forget the contribution of the person, and what they have done in the past. You don’t know what’s happening in their lives or maybe they are happy the way they are." Dixit emphasized the importance of accepting people as they are, focusing on their contributions rather than superficial aspects like age or appearance. "Accept people the way they are; remember what she represents rather than commenting on her size or age," she added.
Dixit’s remarks come at a time when discussions around ageism and sexism in the entertainment industry are gaining momentum. Women in Bollywood, particularly those in their 40s and beyond, often face pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, with their worth frequently judged by their looks rather than their talent or experience.
The actor also shared insights into her creative choices, revealing that she is eager to return to comedy after a series of emotionally intense and dramatic roles. Her upcoming film *Maa Behen*, directed by Suresh Triveni, marks a shift in her career trajectory. Dixit explained, "I had not done comedy in some time. The past few offerings were more dramatic, whether it’s *Mrs Deshpande* [2025], *Maja Ma* [2022], or *The Fame Game* [2022]. I thought this is the right time for comedy." The film, a Netflix project, also stars content creator Dharna Durga, marking a collaborative effort that highlights Dixit’s support for emerging talent.
Recalling her first meeting with Dharna Durga during workshop sessions, Dixit described how nervous the young content creator was. "When I met her the first time, she said, ‘Mujhse nahin hoga,’ with tears in her eyes," Dixit shared. "I told her to not cry and said, ‘I am also an actor, here to create some magic on the set. Let’s work together.’" This interaction underscores Dixit’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for the next generation of artists, emphasizing collaboration and meaningful storytelling over societal expectations.
For Dixit, longevity in the industry is not about conforming to societal norms but about talent, passion, and the ability to evolve creatively. By choosing projects that excite her and stepping away from unsolicited opinions, she continues to prove that success is not dictated by age or appearance but by dedication and artistic integrity. Her upcoming film *Maa Behen* is poised to showcase a different facet of her craft, further solidifying her legacy as an actor who refuses to be boxed into predefined roles.
As Dixit’s career enters its fifth decade, her advocacy for acceptance and her focus on meaningful work serve as a reminder of the importance of challenging societal biases. Her journey continues to inspire, not just as an actor but as a voice for change in an industry that often prioritizes superficiality over substance.
