Jason Zangara, MPH, MA, a U.S.-based public health and safety professional from New Jersey, has intensified his efforts to address systemic gender bias, wage inequality, and colorism across Bollywood and regional Indian cinema.
The Public Interest Litigation (PIL), filed on April 15, 2025, under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution, challenges long-standing discriminatory practices impacting 1.4 billion Indians, including nearly 700 million women.
Findings from Zangara’s comprehensive study on Indian films revealed:
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Gender Pay Disparity: 96.8% of 250 films (2010–2025) were led by male protagonists, while female actors earned up to 85–90% less despite equal or greater screen presence.
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Colorism in Casting: 99.6% of lead roles were given to fair-skinned performers, sidelining darker-skinned talent.
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Male Favoritism: Preferential opportunities and casting choices reinforced patriarchal dominance within the industry.
“I love Indian cinema, but women have so much untapped potential. They shouldn’t always be portrayed as someone’s love interest or confined to kitchens. They deserve leading roles and fair pay,” Zangara stated.
To push for systemic change, Zangara also submitted an appeal to Shri Brij Lal, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice. His petition urges meaningful reforms that promote equality and fairness in India’s entertainment sector.
“This is about more than just film. It’s about dignity, representation, and opportunities for millions of women and artists in India,” Zangara added.
The case has already drawn international media coverage, including features in The Indian Panorama, New India Abroad, Thamasoma, and PTC News, spotlighting both the deep-rooted discrimination and the growing call for reform.
For inquiries or support, please contact:
Jason Zangara, MPH, MA
+1 (908) 672-0626
[email protected]