Empowering women through Pakistani cinema

On this International Women’s Day, we reflect on women's incredible strides and the challenges they continue to face. This day is a tribute and a call to action for a more equitable society where women can achieve their dreams without fear or limitation. Cinema has been a powerful platform to showcase the courage, resilience, and strength of women, with Pakistani films being no exception.

The remarkable women portrayed in Bol, Verna, Dukhtar, and Ek Thi Marium are icons of determination, breaking barriers, defying societal norms, and inspiring generations. Their stories remind us that women can conquer all, no matter the obstacle. These women may be fictional, but their spirits are real, empowering girls and women worldwide to stand tall and never back down.

Key Films and Their Impact

Challenging Patriarchy: Bol (2011)

Bol is a poignant film that highlights the struggles of a family caught between financial hardship and societal expectations. The story revolves around the rejection of an intersex child, Saifi, by the father, whose desire for a son defines his sense of worth. Amidst this, Zainab, played by Humaima Malick, emerges as a powerful voice of resistance, fighting against the patriarchal norms that seek to silence her.

This Shoaib Mansoor film tackles crucial issues such as gender inequality, the rights of marginalized individuals, and the stigma surrounding transgender people. Zainab’s strength and determination to fight for justice show that women can change the narrative even in the most oppressive conditions. Bol not only challenges social taboos but also sparks an essential conversation about women’s rights and gender equality in Pakistan.

Defying Tradition: Dukhtar (2014)

Dukhtar tells the powerful and emotional story of a mother who flees with her young daughter to escape an arranged child marriage, challenging her society's oppressive traditions. Played by Samiya Mumtaz, the mother’s character embodies unwavering courage and determination, doing whatever it takes to protect her daughter’s future.

Directed by Afia Nathaniel, the film illuminates the devastating consequences of child marriage and showcases the resilience of a mother’s love as a transformative force for change. Dukhtar brings the issue of child marriage to the forefront, shedding light on the urgent need for progress. Its raw portrayal of a mother's fight against deeply ingrained traditions was critically acclaimed, sparking meaningful conversations about women’s rights and the need to break free from oppressive cultural practices.

Soaring Beyond Limits: Ek Thi Marium (2016)

Ek Thi Marium is a heartfelt tribute to Marium Mukhtiar, Pakistan's first female fighter pilot, whose life was tragically cut short in the line of duty. The telefilm highlights her incredible determination and courage and celebrates her groundbreaking achievement in the traditionally male-dominated field of aviation.

Sanam Baloch's portrayal of Marium symbolizes bravery and ambition, defying societal norms and reaching new heights. Written by Umera Ahmed and directed by Sarmad Khoosat, the film emphasizes the importance of empowering young girls to chase their dreams, regardless of gender barriers, and honors women’s contributions to the military. Ek Thi Marium is a powerful reminder of the need to break stereotypes, celebrating Mariam’s legacy while inspiring future generations of girls to believe in their limitless potential.

Fighting for Justice: Verna (2017)

Shoaib Mansoor's Vernais a powerful drama that follows the journey of Meera, a woman who seeks justice after enduring a brutal assault. The film portrays her quest to reclaim her power, dignity, and voice in a world that often silences women.

Played by Mahira Khan, Meera becomes a symbol of strength and empowerment as she battles trauma and anger and ultimately finds healing. The film boldly tackles themes of consent, women’s rights, and the need for systemic change in a patriarchal society. Verna sparked vital conversations about sexual violence and women’s autonomy, earning praise for its unapologetic stance on empowerment and the urgent need for social reform.

Breaking Barriers: Nayab (2024)

Nayab tells the inspiring story of a young girl from Karachi who dares to dream of playing in the Cricket World Cup, despite facing societal pressure and familial expectations. Her unwavering determination to pursue her passion for cricket makes her a beacon of hope for young girls looking to break free from traditional gender roles.

Yumna Zaidi’s portrayal of Nayab showcases the grit, perseverance, and self-belief of a woman challenging a male-dominated sport. Directed by Umair Nasir Ali, it highlights the importance of empowerment, resilience, and strength to defy societal norms. Nayab is a celebration of breaking gender stereotypes and fighting for dreams in a society that often discourages women from pursuing them.

Released in January 2024, the film was lauded for portraying a woman’s struggle to follow her dreams. It was recognized on international platforms like the Cannes Film Festival, where it earned a nomination for Best Foreign Film and won Best First-Time Filmmaker. Nayab is a powerful example of how the Pakistani film industry embraces stories that empower women to challenge the norm.

These stories are more than just cinematic representations; they are symbols of untold courage, unspoken sacrifices, and the triumphs of women who defy societal expectations. Whether it’s Zainab’s fight for justice in Bol, Meera’s battle for her dignity in Verna, a mother’s protective love in Dukhtar, Mariam Mukhtiar’s undying bravery in Ek Thi Marium, or Nayab’s dream of breaking into the world of cricket, each of these films showcases how women continue to shatter barriers and redefine what it means to be a hero.

On this International Women’s Day, we honor not only these powerful portrayals but also the real-life women who have made their mark in every field, from acting to sports, politics, and beyond. These stories remind us that every woman has the potential to write her own story—one of strength, resilience, and infinite possibility. Let us celebrate and empower women to rise, dream, and create the world they deserve. Together, we can forge a future where every woman’s voice is heard and every dream is possible.