7 Bollywood films made on taboo subjects  

Arshi Khanam

Hard-hitting reflection 

Cinema’s reflection of social stigmas has always attracted viewers as we delve into topics that often remain ignorant despite their significance. Here are Bollywood films that explore stereotypes with uniqueness. 

1. Cheeni Kum  

Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu starrer romantic drama film explores the taboo of age difference. The story follows two unlikely lovers with a huge gap of 30 years as they struggle for their unconventional relationship. 

2. Kya Kehna

This movie was way ahead of its time as it showcases the taboo topics of premarital sex and teen pregnancy as a young girl (Preity Zinta) battle against the odds of society and family. It also features Saif Ali Khan.  

3. Lust Stories

It explores the themes of intimate relationships, love, and sexual desires from the core perspective of women against gender stereotypes. The star-studded ensemble features Kiara Advani, Vicky Kaushal, Manisha Koirala and others. 

4. Pad Man

Set against rural India, this biographical comedy-drama film stars Akshay Kumar and Radhika Apte. It delves into the inspiring journey of a man to shed light on menstrual hygiene as he begins making low-cost sanitary pads.  

5. Vicky Donor

Exploring the taboos of infertility and sperm donation – This intriguing film revolves around sperm donor Vicky (Ayushmann Khurrana) as his life takes a deep turn when his secrets unfold during a personal crisis. 

6. My Brother…Nikhil

This groundbreaking movie explores the poignant tale of a bright swimmer, Nikhil (Sanjay Suri), whose life crumbles after getting diagnosed with HIV. It explores homosexuality and the sensitive topic of HIV, which shatters offensive stereotypes about the disease.  

7. Janhit Mein Jaari  

Nusshrat Bharucha starrer shatters stereotypes of sex and gender norms as it depicts the tale of a determined saleswoman who embarks on a thrilling journey to sell condoms, breaking societal and small-town notions.