In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where actors often grapple with the dichotomy between commercial success and personal values, Siddharth stands out as a beacon of integrity. His recent revelations at the Hyderabad Literary Festival 2025 shed light on his deliberate choices to reject roles that perpetuate negative stereotypes, especially concerning women.
The Hyderabad Literary Festival (HLF) has long been a melting pot of ideas, literature, and culture. The 2025 edition, held from January 24 to 26 at Sattva Knowledge City, HITEC City, was no exception. With Lithuania as the guest nation and Sindhi as the Indian language in focus, the festival showcased a plethora of events, including panel discussions, workshops, cultural programs, and more. Esteemed personalities like actress Shabana Azmi, actor Amol Palekar, and former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan graced the event, making it a memorable affair.
Misogyny in Indian Cinema
Among the myriad sessions, one that garnered significant attention was the conversation between actor Siddharth and singer-author Vidya Rao, mother of his wife, Aditi Rao Hydari. In this candid discussion, Siddharth delved deep into his journey in the film industry, emphasizing the importance of making conscious choices.
Siddharth revealed that throughout his career, he was often presented with scripts that required him to portray actions he found objectionable. “I used to get scripts where I am slapping women, doing item songs, pinching somebody’s navel, telling women what she should do, where she should go, etc. I rejected them outright,” he stated. This unwavering stance against roles that demean women underscores his commitment to promoting respectful portrayals in cinema.
Choosing integrity over instant fame, Siddharth acknowledged that his decisions might have impacted his stardom. “I might be a far bigger movie star today if I was differently wired. I instinctively did what I liked,” he reflected. However, the gratification he derives from his choices is immeasurable. “Today, people tell me you were respectful to women, you were good to parents, you were good with kids, you looked cute. And their kids watch my films from 15 years ago. It’s such a gratifying feeling; it’s not something that can be measured in crores,” he added.
Embracing Vulnerability on Screen
In an industry where machismo often dominates, Siddharth’s willingness to display vulnerability sets him apart. “Everyone around me was trying to be aggressive and macho. I was happy to cry on screen,” he shared. This authenticity has endeared him to audiences, making his characters relatable and genuine. Continuing his streak of meaningful roles, Siddharth recently starred in the relationship drama “Miss You,” alongside Ashika Ranganath. He is also part of the much-anticipated “Indian 2,” headlined by Kamal Haasan and directed by Shankar. These projects reflect his dedication to quality cinema that resonates with audiences.
Siddharth’s decisions transcend personal career moves; they challenge the industry’s status quo. By rejecting roles that perpetuate harmful stereotypes, he prompts filmmakers to rethink character portrayals, especially concerning women. His actions encourage a shift towards more respectful and nuanced representations in Indian cinema. Audiences have lauded Siddharth’s commitment to integrity. Parents appreciate his respectful portrayals, deeming his films suitable for younger viewers. This positive reception indicates a societal readiness for cinema that upholds values and challenges outdated norms.
Actors like Siddharth serve as crucial role models, especially for younger generations. His choices highlight the significance of standing by one’s principles, even in the face of potential setbacks. In an industry where compromise is often the norm, his unwavering stance offers a refreshing perspective. Siddharth’s journey in Indian cinema exemplifies the power of conscious choices. By prioritizing integrity over instant fame, he has carved a niche that resonates with audiences seeking meaningful and respectful portrayals. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the profound impact that individual decisions can have on broader cultural narratives.
