Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor has never shied away from speaking her mind, and in a recent candid interview, she opened up about the subtle sexism and gender dynamics that continue to shape the film industry. The Good Luck Jerry and Mr. & Mrs. Mahi star revealed that, at times, she finds herself pretending to be less capable than she really is — just to avoid bruising male egos around her.
In her own words, Janhvi admitted, “Sometimes, to protect male egos, I pretend that I don’t know things or that I’m not capable enough. It’s a survival tactic, really. You can sense when someone feels threatened by your confidence or intelligence, and rather than confront that energy, I just play along.”
The actress explained that this behavior is not something she’s proud of, but it’s a reflection of the reality many women in the film world—and beyond—face daily. “It’s disheartening because you want to be your authentic self, to speak freely and be taken seriously. But when you do that, you’re often labeled as arrogant or difficult. So, I’ve learned to read the room and adjust my tone,” she said thoughtfully.
Balancing Strength and Sensitivity
Janhvi, who has worked in a variety of genres from intense dramas like Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl to light-hearted entertainers, says that navigating male egos on set requires emotional intelligence. “There’s a fine line between standing up for yourself and being perceived as disrespectful. I’ve seen how assertive women get dismissed or sidelined. So sometimes, you have to be strategic, even if that means holding back,” she shared.
The actress added that this kind of restraint can be exhausting, especially when all one wants is to be recognized for their craft and professionalism. “It can be draining because you start second-guessing yourself — should I say this? Should I correct him? Will it make me look bad? It’s not easy,” she confessed.
“I Let My Work Speak for Me”
Despite these challenges, Janhvi Kapoor continues to make her mark in Bollywood with a strong lineup of performances that prove her versatility. She believes that the best way to counter gender bias is through consistent, quality work. “I’ve realized that the best way to be heard is through your performance. You can argue, you can fight, but ultimately, the only thing that truly changes perceptions is excellence. That’s where I focus my energy,” she said.
Her recent performances have been praised for their emotional depth and authenticity, cementing her as one of the most promising young talents in the industry. Yet, Janhvi remains aware of the double standards that female actors often face — especially when compared to their male counterparts. “When a male actor is confident, he’s called powerful. When a woman is confident, she’s called intimidating. That’s the mindset we’re still fighting,” she remarked.
Fans Applaud Her Honesty
Following her comments, social media was abuzz with support for the actress. Many fans applauded her for shedding light on a sensitive issue that’s rarely discussed so openly. Others pointed out that Janhvi’s remarks highlight the invisible struggles women face in male-dominated industries, where talent alone isn’t always enough.
Janhvi’s willingness to speak out reflects a growing shift in Bollywood — one where more female artists are using their voices to challenge stereotypes and demand respect. “I’m learning to find balance — to stay soft but strong, humble but confident. It’s a process,” she concluded.
As Janhvi Kapoor continues to evolve as both an artist and an individual, her honesty about the unspoken pressures of showbiz serves as a reminder that behind the glamour lies a constant battle for equality and self-expression.
