Actor Paras Madaan, who is currently seen in Pocket Mein Aasmaan on Star Plus, says that TV shows need to update their stories where women characters are concerned. He adds that the portrayal needs to be more realistic and stronger.
“While progress has been made, I believe TV shows still need to update how they portray women on screen. Stereotypes and regressive roles persist, limiting women to idealized daughters-in-law, sacrificing mothers, or vampish seductress archetypes. However, a new wave of shows is challenging these norms, presenting complex, multidimensional female characters. To truly reflect societal progress, TV shows must continue to evolve, showcasing women’s diversity, strengths, and weaknesses, and promoting inclusivity and equality,” he says.
He adds, “Women have long broken free from the confines of being mere damsels in distress, and television must reflect this paradigm shift. Today’s women are strong, independent, and multidimensional, taking charge of their lives, careers, and destinies. TV shows should not only acknowledge but also celebrate this transformation, portraying women as empowered, complex, and dynamic characters who drive the narrative forward. By doing so, television can play a significant role in shaping societal perceptions and promoting gender equality.”
He adds that as an actor, he actively works to portray women in a better light. “Through my performances, I aim to amplify the voices of women, highlight their struggles, and celebrate their triumphs. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable narrative, one that empowers women and inspires a new generation of leaders,” he says.
Paras says that we need to get rid of this gender bias on not just TV, but even on social media. “While social media has democratised opportunities for women to become influencers, I don’t think it’s entirely free from gender bias and disparity. Women influencers often face objectification, sexism, and scrutiny, with their credibility and expertise being questioned. Moreover, the algorithm-driven platforms can perpetuate existing biases, affecting visibility and engagement. However, it’s heartening to see many women influencers using their platforms to challenge these biases, promote equality, and empower their audiences,” he says.
Meanwhile, ask him about the women he looks up to, and he says, “For me, it’s my mother and my wife. My mother, because she’s the embodiment of selflessness, love, and strength. She’s the one who instilled in me the values of kindness, empathy, and hard work. My wife, because she’s my rock, my partner, and my best friend. She’s the one who inspires me to be a better person, to take risks, and to chase my dreams. Both of these incredible women have shaped me into the person I am today, and I look up to them for their love, support, and unwavering encouragement.”
