Mumbai, India – July 6, 2025: Bollywood star Kajol recently sparked a conversation about age differences in the film industry. Speaking at an event, the acclaimed actress noted that nearly every male actor in Bollywood has worked with a significantly younger actress in romantic roles.
Kajol, known for her roles in iconic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, shared her perspective on the trend. “There’s not a single male actor in the film industry who hasn’t worked with an actress much younger than him,” she said, highlighting the common practice in Bollywood where older male stars are often paired with younger female co-stars.
The actress, who has been a prominent figure in Indian cinema for over three decades, explained that this pattern is driven by the industry’s focus on commercial success. “Movies are a business, and leading actors carry the responsibility of making a film a hit,” she said. Kajol emphasized that this is her personal view, not a definitive fact, but it reflects the pressures male stars face to attract audiences.
Kajol also noted that her own career has been different. She has taken on diverse roles, from playing a villain in *Gupt: The Hidden Truth* to a mother in Salaam Venky, because she did not have the same box-office pressures as her male counterparts. “I could explore varied roles without the burden of carrying the film’s success,” she added.
Her comments have reignited discussions about age dynamics in Bollywood, where male actors like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, both in their late 50s, are often cast opposite actresses in their 20s or 30s. Critics and fans alike have debated whether this reflects audience preferences or reinforces outdated stereotypes.
Kajol’s remarks come at a time when Bollywood is seeing gradual changes, with more women-led films and diverse roles for actresses. The actress, a six-time Filmfare Award winner, continues to be a vocal advocate for meaningful storytelling and has inspired many with her versatile performances.
As Bollywood evolves, Kajol’s candid observations highlight the need for the industry to balance commercial demands with fresh, inclusive narratives. Her upcoming projects, including the web series The Good Wife, are eagerly awaited by fans worldwide.
