‘We Lacked Access To Privacy…’: Dia Mirza On Facing Casual Sexism In Bollywood!

Actress Dia Mirza opened up about her early years in the film industry and revealed the significant challenges she faced on set. Continue reading!

Dia Mirza is regarded as one of the most talented actresses of her generation. The former Miss India has won the hearts of millions with her exceptional acting abilities and breathtaking beauty. She made her acting debut in 2001 with the iconic romantic film Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein. Dia Mirza has been in the entertainment industry for over two decades and is well-versed in its workings. Revisiting her career, the actress opened up about the early stages of her career and revealed how common casual sexism was on set. She also revealed that women had little privacy and access to basic hygiene during shoots.

Dia Mirza Recalls Troubles She Faced On Film Sets Due To Prevalent Sexism

Dia Mirza was recently interviewed by BBC Hindi and asked about the casual sexism she would have to face and why it is so prevalent. In response, the actress stated that several women worked on film sets and that there would be constraints around every corner.

“It would be different how we were treated as well as what amenities we would have access to.” Our vanity vans would be smaller. When we went to locations to shoot songs, basic amenities like toilets were not available. We would have to hide behind trees and rocks, with three people shielding you with large sheets. We would not have enough room to change clothes. Essentially, we lacked access to privacy and basic hygiene.”

Dia Mirza Discusses Dealing With The Tantrums Of Male Actors

Dia revealed in the same interview that not only was the entire film industry biased against women, but men also benefited from this special treatment. The actress revealed that the male actors would frequently arrive late for shoots and no one would say anything.

“The actress went on to say that if the male actors were late, there would be no problems. But if a woman caused a delay, we were immediately labeled unprofessional.” “The fact remains, however, that even the most basic of things were ignored, such as when our male counterparts arrived late”.

Dia Mirza’s Professional Front 

Dia Mirza was most recently seen in the road drama Dhak Dhak, alongside Ratna Pathak Shah, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sanjana Sanghi. Tarun Dudeja directed the film, which was written by Parijat Joshi and Anvita Dutt.