Madhuri Dixit Explains Why Maa Behen Is Striking a Chord: ‘Society Needs to Change as a Whole’

Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit believes her latest film Maa Behen is resonating with audiences because it speaks honestly about a problem deeply rooted in society — the constant judgement women face for their clothes, choices, relationships and personal freedom.

Directed by Suresh Triveni, the film may appear to be a comedy on the surface, but underneath its humour lies a sharp social commentary about moral policing and everyday hypocrisy.

The story follows Rekha, played by Madhuri Dixit, and her two daughters Jaya and Sushma, portrayed by Triptii Dimri and Dharna Durga. Each woman faces a different form of societal scrutiny.

While Rekha becomes the subject of gossip because of her sleeveless blouse, Jaya struggles within a patriarchal marriage where she is expected to quietly serve the men around her. Meanwhile, Sushma finds herself publicly shamed after a kissing video goes viral.

Rather than focusing only on men, the film questions society as a whole — including women who participate in judging other women.

Speaking about the film in an interview with NDTV, Madhuri explained why the script immediately connected with her.

‘It’s Not Just a Film for Women’

Madhuri said the film does not target one gender but instead reflects how deeply judgement is embedded within society itself.

“People are watching it. Women are watching it. They’re relating to it. And I feel it’s not only a woman’s film. It’s also a film for men,” she said.

The actress added that the film uses humour to discuss serious issues without turning preachy.

“It’s humorous. It’s funny. And it’s not like saying that only men do this. Even women judge. Even women are judging her and calling her all kinds of names. So it’s basically a statement on society in general, not on one gender,” Madhuri shared.

According to the actress, the film asks everyone to introspect about their own attitudes and behaviour.

“We need to change. Society needs to change as a whole, not just the men or the women. I think everybody needs to change their attitude,” she added.

The Khal Nayak Connection

Interestingly, viewers have also drawn parallels between Maa Behen and Madhuri Dixit’s iconic song Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai from the 1993 film Khal Nayak.

At the time of its release, the song sparked major controversy and faced criticism for being “vulgar.” Over the years, however, it has become one of the most memorable songs of Madhuri’s career.

In Maa Behen, Rekha’s sleeveless blouse becomes a symbolic tool of resistance rather than shame. The film flips the gaze back on society, questioning why women’s clothing continues to become a subject of public morality.

Reacting to audiences noticing these deeper details, Madhuri expressed happiness that viewers were engaging so closely with the film.

“Whenever you make a film, touches are given to enhance the film, which can sometimes be overlooked by people,” she said.

“But just the fact that they’re talking about even the littlest of things gives us joy because they’re watching the movie. They’re getting immersed in the movie.”

Madhuri Dixit’s Enduring Connection With Audiences

Often remembered as Bollywood’s original Dhak Dhak girl, Madhuri Dixit dominated Hindi cinema during the 1990s with films like Tezaab, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, and Khal Nayak.

At the peak of her career, she stepped away from films after marrying Dr Shriram Nene and moved to the United States before eventually returning to Indian cinema with Aaja Nachle in 2007.

ALSO READ : ‘Pakistani Women Called Me Crying…’: Ameesha Patel Reveals the Emotional Impact of Gadar 25 Years Later

Speaking about the love she continues to receive from audiences, Madhuri said she feels emotionally connected to her fans even today.

“They think that I’m a part of their family. And that’s the biggest advantage for me,” she shared.

“I’ve always acknowledged the fact that they’ve always supported me and loved me. And it goes both ways.”

A Film With Humour and a Message

In recent years, Madhuri has experimented with streaming projects like The Fame Game and Mrs Deshpande, but Maa Behen occupies a unique place in her filmography.

The film allows her to balance comedy with a strong social message, portraying a woman who refuses to shrink herself to fit society’s expectations.

With Triptii Dimri and Dharna Durga playing her daughters, the film becomes a layered story about three women confronting different versions of the same judgemental gaze.

While the film delivers laughs, it also asks difficult questions: Why does society continue to feel entitled to control how women dress, behave, love and live?

For Madhuri Dixit, that conversation is exactly what makes Maa Behen relevant today.