Women have made significant contributions to the film industry, both in front of and behind the camera. However, they have also faced numerous challenges and barriers due to gender discrimination and biases in the male-dominated industry. Women have often been underrepresented in key roles such as directors, producers, and writers, and have also been paid less than their male counterparts.

However, there have been significant strides towards greater gender equality in recent years. Many female filmmakers, actors, and producers have spoken out about the need for more opportunities and better representation for women in the industry. Film festivals and awards ceremonies have also started to recognize and honor the work of female filmmakers and actors.

In India, the film industry has also seen the rise of more female-centric films that focus on women’s stories and experiences. Women filmmakers such as Zoya Akhtar, Meghna Gulzar, and Gauri Shinde have gained critical and commercial success for their work, and actresses such as Kangana Ranaut and Vidya Balan have challenged stereotypes and pushed the boundaries of what female actors can do on screen.

Here is the list of some web series which must be watch this weekend to praise female actors works on screen.

• Heeramandi

“Heeramandi” is an upcoming Indian web television series created by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The series is said to be based on the life of the legendary Indian courtesans, who were skilled in music, dance, and poetry and were known for their beauty and charm.

The series will reportedly explore the lives of several courtesans who lived in the famous Heera Mandi red-light district of Lahore, which was known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The series is expected to feature an ensemble cast of talented actors, including Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s muse, who will reportedly play the lead role of a courtesan in the series.

“Heeramandi” has generated a lot of buzz and anticipation among audiences and is expected to be a grand and opulent production, typical of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s style. However, the series is yet to be released, and there is no official release date announced as of now.

• SHE

“She” is a popular Indian crime thriller web television series that premiered on Netflix in 2020. The series is created by Imtiaz Ali and stars Aaditi Pohankar, Vijay Varma, and Kishore Kumar G in key roles.

The series follows the story of a brave female constable named Bhumika Pardesi (played by Aaditi Pohankar), who is tasked with rescuing a missing girl named Nandini from a drug lord named Nayak (played by Vijay Varma). Bhumika’s mission leads her on a dangerous and thrilling journey, where she must navigate a web of corruption, deceit, and violence to uncover the truth about Nandini’s disappearance.

“She” received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its gripping storyline, powerful performances, and high-octane action sequences. The series also received praise for its portrayal of a strong and independent female protagonist who defies gender stereotypes and challenges the patriarchal norms of Indian society.

“She” has been renewed for a second season, which is expected to continue the story of Bhumika Pardesi and her fight against crime and corruption.

• Masaba Masaba

“Masaba Masaba” is a popular Indian web television series that premiered on Netflix in 2020. The series is created by Sonam Nair and stars Masaba Gupta and her mother, veteran actress Neena Gupta, playing fictionalized versions of themselves.

The series is a semi-autobiographical account of Masaba Gupta’s life, who is a well-known fashion designer in India. The series explores the ups and downs of her personal and professional life, including her struggles with her identity as a mixed-race woman, her relationship with her mother, and her journey towards becoming a successful fashion designer.

“Masaba Masaba” received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its fresh and authentic take on the fashion industry, its portrayal of complex mother-daughter relationships, and its celebration of diversity and inclusivity. The series also featured several celebrity cameos, including actors Kiara Advani, Farah Khan, and Shibani Dandekar, among others.

“Masaba Masaba” has been renewed for a second season, which is expected to continue the story of Masaba Gupta and her journey towards becoming a leading figure in the fashion industry.

• Mai

“Mai” is a Hindi-language film that was released in 2013. The film is directed by Mahesh Kodiyal and stars Asha Bhosle, the legendary Indian playback singer, in the lead role. The film also features Ram Kapoor, Padmini Kolhapure, and Shivani Joshi in supporting roles.

The film tells the story of a woman named Mai (played by Asha Bhosle) who is abandoned by her son and daughter-in-law and forced to live in an old-age home. Mai is a strong-willed and independent woman who refuses to give up on life and fights for her dignity and respect. The film explores themes such as family relationships, aging, and the value of human life.

“Mai” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Asha Bhosle’s performance and the film’s emotional depth, while others criticized its predictable plot and melodramatic tone. Despite the mixed reviews, the film was appreciated for its portrayal of the plight of elderly people in India and the importance of respecting and caring for them.

• Bombay Begums

“Bombay Begums” is an Indian drama web television series that premiered on Netflix in March 2021. The series is directed by Alankrita Shrivastava and stars Pooja Bhatt, Shahana Goswami, Amruta Subhash, Plabita Borthakur, and Aadhya Anand in key roles.

The series explores the lives of five women from different backgrounds and generations who navigate various challenges and struggles in contemporary Mumbai. The characters include a successful banker, a bar dancer, a politician, a young intern, and a former actress. The series deals with themes such as patriarchy, power dynamics, gender roles, and sexual harassment.

“Bombay Begums” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some praised the series for its nuanced portrayal of complex female characters and relevant social issues, others criticized it for its slow pace and uneven storytelling. Despite the mixed response, the series sparked conversations about gender equality and women’s empowerment in India.

• Delhi Crime

“Delhi Crime” is an Indian crime drama web television series directed by Richie Mehta. The series premiered on Netflix in March 2019 and is based on the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, which shook the nation and sparked widespread protests and outrage.

The series is set in the aftermath of the crime and follows the investigation by the Delhi Police, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Vartika Chaturvedi, played by Shefali Shah. The series also stars Rasika Dugal, Adil Hussain, Rajesh Tailang, and Jaya Bhattacharya in key roles.

“Delhi Crime” received critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling, powerful performances, and realistic portrayal of the events surrounding the crime. The series won the Best Drama Series award at the 48th International Emmy Awards in 2020, making it the first Indian series to win an Emmy. It has been renewed for a second season, which is expected to premiere on Netflix in 2021.

• Aranyak

“Aranyak” is an Indian web television series on Netflix. The series is directed by Vinay Waikul and stars Raveena Tandon, Parambrata Chattopadhyay, Ashutosh Rana, and Zakir Hussain in key roles.

“Aranyak” is a crime thriller series set in the wilderness of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The series follows the story of a young female police officer who is tasked with investigating a series of mysterious deaths that occur in the forest. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of dark secrets and conspiracies that threaten to consume her and those around her.

The series is being produced by Roy Kapur Films and Ramesh Sippy Entertainment and is expected to be a high-octane thriller that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and action. The series marks Raveena Tandon’s debut in the digital medium and is expected to showcase her in a powerful and intense role.