Perspective on Masculinity in Hindi Films

The concept of masculinity is from the beginning of films in India. Masculinity refers to the behaviour, social rules and relation of men within a given society. As per Oxford dictionary it is the qualities or attributes regarded as the characteristics of boys or men. A man who is truly masculine embraces responsibility and loves, honours, protects and provides for family and loved ones. He lives with integrity, motivation and conviction and not comfort or convenience. True masculinity is not defined by how much physical strength a man has but rather the strength of his character. Masculinity is constructed and defined socially historically and politically rather than being biologically driven. In all societies, there are many ideas about masculinity and femininity that are harmful to girls and women, and to boys and men. Research suggests that in most societies ideas about masculinity are defined in opposition to ideas about femininity. The roles, behaviours and attributes that are considered appropriate for men are often defined as the opposite of those associated with femaleness and considered appropriate for women. More than this, the roles, behaviours and attributes that are associated with masculinity are usually considered superior to those associated with femininity; there is not only a difference between masculinity and femininity but also a hierarchy, in many aspects of life. Power is seen as masculine. In most parts of the world, having power over political, economic and social affairs is associated with masculinity. The roles, behaviours and attributes that are associated with maleness and considered masculine usually bring greater social status, economic reward and political power than those associated with the feminine.