Emraan Hashmi: India Loves Toxic Masculinity?

Actor Emraan Hashmi has shared his views on the persistent debate around hypermasculinity in Hindi cinema. He suggests that films glorifying "toxic" male characters, despite facing criticism from a "woke culture," continue to draw large audiences because many viewers identify with them. Hashmi posited that this trend reflects the current social reality in India, which underpins the commercial success of movies like 'Animal.'

Hashmi also expressed a desire for a more diverse cinematic landscape, particularly advocating for an increase in women-led narratives. He noted that industry professionals often shy away from such subjects due to personal insecurities, preferring stories that emphasize male triumphs. Referencing his own past choices like 'The Dirty Picture,' he urged colleagues to overcome these apprehensions and embrace varied storytelling.

Despite his advocacy for change, Hashmi acknowledged the current commercial formula driving mainstream cinema, which often relies on hyper-masculine protagonists and established tropes. He sees the rise of streaming platforms as a potential catalyst for evolving storytelling, reminiscent of the shift towards romantic films in the 1990s, and anticipates further evolution in cinematic narratives.