Decades before discussions about the male gaze, objectification, and gender representation became mainstream, Smita Patil was already asking uncomfortable questions. The acclaimed actress, remembered for her powerful performances in ‘Bhumika’, ‘Manthan’, ‘Aakrosh’, ‘Ardh Satya’, and ‘Mirch Masala’, never hesitated to speak her mind, whether through her choice of roles or her public statements.At a time…

Nithya Menen weighed in on the Peddi objectification debate surrounding Janhvi Kapoor, saying actors must assert themselves and set clear boundaries from the start. While admitting she hasn’t seen the film, she defended South Indian cinema, arguing objectification is a global problem rooted in the hyper-commercialisation of cinema. Janhvi has not yet responded. Nithya Menen…