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R Madhavan , who is currently promoting his upcoming film Aap Jaisa Koi alongside Fatima Sana Shaikh, has addressed the long-standing criticism around toxic masculinity in Hindi films . The actor also responded to the continued discourse surrounding his cult classic Rehnaa Hai Tere Dil Mein (RHTDM), which in recent years has been called out for promoting problematic male behaviour.

In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Madhavan shared his thoughts on the portrayal of flawed male characters and urged audiences to view older films within the social and cultural context in which they were made.

“Every Hindi film hero is flawed”

“If you look back at any Hindi film or film hero, you'll find that he is completely flawed,” Madhavan said. “That’s part of the way Indian culture has been represented. There's no actor in the Hindi film industry whose one film or the other is not toxic masculinity.”

Using RHTDM as a reference point, he added, “Don't take only Rehnaa Hai Tere Dil Mein; take any film before that. Any hero who has slapped a woman on the set or in the story is toxic. Name one actor who has not done that or any actor who’s abused a woman in some way in a role. So if you look at it in retrospect, then you're going to confuse yourself completely.”

“What are the circumstances under which that guy fell in love?”

The Dhokha Round D Corner actor went on to reflect on how older films mirrored the socio-cultural norms of the time. He spoke about a time before mobile phones, especially in rural settings, where social functions were often the only way men and women could meet.

He added, “If a guy sees a woman on a train and wants to approach her with noble intentions, what is the way to do that? If he keeps a letter she gave, it’s considered creepy. So, we have to change our understanding of what masculinity is right now.”



Madhavan says perception of masculinity must evolve with time

Concluding his thoughts, Madhavan acknowledged that masculinity, as a concept, has evolved and must continue to be redefined. However, he suggested that critiquing older characters through today’s lens without considering the societal context may lead to oversimplified conclusions.

Aap Jaisa Koi, his upcoming film with Fatima Sana Shaikh, reportedly explores themes like emotional abuse, gender roles, and how masculinity manifests in relationships. The film is expected to bring a more layered and contemporary take on these complex issues.