National Girl Child Day 2026: Bollywood Movies That Changed What It Means to Be a ‘Daughter’

Movies have often shown what life is like in the real world. It can be fun at times. It also makes people question things they have always thought. Many Bollywood films have tried to change the old idea that daughters are a burden over the years. Instead, they have shown girls as strong, capable, and fearless people who make their own choices about their futures.

On National Girl Child Day, we look back at some Hindi films that changed the way people think about daughters. These stories went beyond sympathy and showed why trust, opportunity, and fairness are important.

## Dangal: There Is No Gender in Strength

Starring Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra

Dangal broke down stereotypes by showing daughters as strong both mentally and physically. The story of Geeta and Babita Phogat shows that girls can be successful all over the world if they get the same training and support. The movie tells people to invest in their daughters without thinking twice.

##Mardaani: A badge of courage with Rani Mukherjee

The character of Shivani Shivaji Roy in Mardaani changed the way we think about leadership. She is a brave police officer who fights crime and injustice. The movie makes it clear that moral courage and authority have nothing to do with being a man or a woman.

## Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl: Dreams Above Doubt With Janhvi Kapoor

This biographical drama is about a daughter who won’t let prejudice hold her back. Gunjan Saxena’s story speaks to every girl who has been told that some dreams are “not for her.” The movie is about the power of belief, confidence, and never giving up.

##Neerja: Being brave through kindness With Sonam Kapoor

Neerja shows heroism in its most human form. The movie is about Neerja Bhanot, a young woman who chose bravery and selflessness over fear. It makes a daughter a real-life hero who put her own life on the line to save others.

## Mimi: Choosing to Be Responsible Instead of Judging With Kriti Sanon

Mimi gives a new look at being a mother. It takes away the glitz and focusses on being responsible and having self-respect. Mimi’s story shows that a young woman can make brave choices and stick to them, even when people around her question them.## A Better Story for the Future

These films together remind us that daughters are not weaknesses that need to be protected. You can trust them to be strong. Bollywood has changed how we see girls on screen, which has also changed how society sees them in real life. This can change not only their future, but the future of the country as well.