Taapsee Pannu exposes gendered casting dynamics and pay disparities in Bollywood

In a recent candid interview with a daily, Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu spoke out about the influential role that male actors play in casting decisions, revealing the unequal dynamics at work in the film industry. Pannu explained that in many high-budget productions, it is often the male lead who decides which female actor will share the screen, a trend she says is well-known among audiences.

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Pannu addressed the wage gap she experiences when working alongside prominent male stars, notably in big-budget projects like Dunki. Contrary to public perception, Pannu disclosed that her earnings are usually higher in films where she takes center stage, such as Haseen Dillruba, rather than in blockbuster movies featuring established male actors. “People think I do films like Judwaa or Dunki for the money, but it’s actually the opposite. I get paid more when I headline the film,” she shared, adding that these major projects often see her remuneration minimized, as if casting her is a “favour.”

Pannu went on to emphasize that male actors hold significant power in casting choices for nearly 75 percent of films, often preferring to cast female leads who won’t overshadow them. Some opt for trendy female stars to enhance the film’s appeal, while others look for “safe” choices, she noted, exposing Bollywood's competitive and gender-biased atmosphere.

Professionally, Pannu recently appeared in Khel Khel Mein and will soon star in Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan with Pratik Gandhi.