Challenging The Patriarchy: Lipstick Under My Burkha

Lipstick Under My Burkha is making a big buzz in B-Town. The controversial movie the life of four women, who challenge the prejudices prevalent in the Indian society.

As the movie opens, viewers are introduced to the four protagonists – Bua ji (Ratna Pathak), Leela (Aahana Kumra), Shireen (Konkona Sen Sharma) and Rehana (Plabita Borthakur) – through the narration of an erotica novel called ‘Lipstick Waley Sapnay’ (Lipstick dreams). The narration of this story is brought to light through Pathak’s powerful voice, while showing glimpses of the lives of the four ladies.

 Lipstick Under My Burkha ​directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, was finally released after a five-month delay caused by the Central Board of Film Certification's refusal to give it a certificate.  The film initially banned from cinemas for being too “lady-oriented” turned out to be both a critical and major commercial hit at the box office.