Veteran Bollywood actor Tabu has spoken candidly about the persistent gender gap in the Hindi film industry, highlighting how women continue to be judged more harshly for their age than their work.
In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar India, the acclaimed actor addressed the pressure placed on actresses as they grow older, calling the industry’s obsession with age both unfair and exhausting.
Tabu said women are repeatedly reminded of ageing, even though it is a natural and constant process.
“People are more worried about your age than you are yourself,” she said, adding that actresses are often treated as if they are unaware of their own reality.
She noted that ageing is not something that happens suddenly but is experienced every day, yet women in cinema are made to feel scrutinised for it far more than men.
Industry expectations and selective honesty
Beyond age-related bias, Tabu also discussed the unspoken rules of diplomacy within the film industry, particularly when it comes to rejecting projects.
Also read: Ajay Devgan tells why he always works with Tabu
The actor revealed that she has frequently been advised to avoid giving honest feedback when turning down films. Instead, she was encouraged to cite scheduling issues rather than openly admit a lack of creative connection with a script.
According to Tabu, she never fully embraced that practice.
“If I don’t like the script, I don’t like it,” she said, explaining that honesty has always guided her professional decisions, even if it went against conventional industry advice.
Her stance reflects a broader shift among senior actors who are increasingly vocal about creative autonomy and transparent communication.
Recent work and upcoming films
Tabu was last seen in Bhooth Bangla, and she is currently preparing for King100, which marks the 100th film of Telugu superstar Nagarjuna Akkineni.
She also began filming a new project with director Naveen Ra Karthik in April 2026, further underscoring her continued presence across major Indian film industries.
A wider conversation in Bollywood
Tabu’s remarks have resonated across social media and film circles, where conversations around ageism, gender parity, and creative respect are gaining renewed attention.
As one of the few actors to maintain a leading career across decades, her perspective offers insight into the structural challenges women still face in Bollywood while reinforcing the value of experience over age-based stereotypes.
