Actress and producer Kriti Sanon spoke about gender equality in Bollywood and admitted that “there was some conflict over money.” It highlighted how female characters often bear the brunt of budget cuts while male actors’ fees remain unchanged. Kriti, who hopes to create more opportunities for women, will next be seen in ‘Cocktail 2’.
Even in 2026, Bollywood’s battle for gender equality is far from over. The pay gap between male and female actors remains a sore point, with stars like Deepika Padukone and Kareena Kapoor having previously pointed out the disparity. Now, actress and producer Kriti Sanon has added her voice to the conversation, admitting that she herself has not been immune to financial dysfunction.
She noted that when budgets get tight, it’s the starring fees that almost always take the hit, while the male actor’s share of the budget remains largely unchanged.
Kriti Sanon talks about confronting financial inequality
In an interview with GQ India, Kriti spoke candidly about the gender pay gap. “There was some conflict around money,” she said, acknowledging the financial disparity actresses still face. She stressed that the struggle for equality is far from over, and that patriarchy in Bollywood is still very much alive, often appearing in hidden, everyday moments on film sets.
Kriti revealed that although she was always keen to stand up for herself, finding that voice wasn’t easy in the early days of her career.
She also narrated instances where co-stars, not necessarily senior citizens, were given better facilities and treatment. However, she was quick to clarify that her concern was never about privilege or perks, but simply about being treated with the same respect as her male counterparts.
Kriti Sanon talks about bridging the gap as a producer
While acknowledging that many producers and directors today hold a more progressive outlook, Kriti stressed that deep-rooted biases have not completely disappeared. Wearing her production hat, she spoke about the change she hopes to bring to the table. She draws attention to a long-standing imbalance: Women are often cast in smaller, supporting roles in male-led films, yet it’s rare to see a prominent male star take a supporting role in a female-led story.
Kriti expressed his hope that this mentality would eventually change. She also made sure to clarify that she has no reservations about being a part of male-centric films, but as a producer, her priority is to open more doors for women, since well-written, substantive roles for female actresses are still few and far between.
Kriti Sanon will be seen in the upcoming film “Cocktail 2”.
On the professional front, Kriti Sanon has an exciting project ahead of her. She will next be seen in Cocktail 2, a spiritual sequel to the 2012 film that starred Deepika Padukone.
Saif Ali Khan
And Diana Penty. Next movie collects
Shahid Kapoor
And Rashmika Mandanna in the lead roles, with Kriti stepping in as Allie. Output
Homi Adajanya
The film is scheduled to arrive in theaters worldwide on June 19, 2026.