Kriti Sanon blasts producers negotiating actresses' fees and giving ‘large chunk’ to actors: ‘Patriarchy is deeply ingrained’

Kriti Sanon alleged that patriarchy is still deeply ingrained in the industry. The actress will be next seen in Cocktail 2 with Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna.

Updated on May 09, 2026  |  04:17 PM IST |  1.5M
Kriti Sanon blasts producers negotiating actresses' fees and giving ‘large chunk’ to actors: ‘Patriarchy is deeply ingrained’
PC: Kriti Sanon on Instagram

Kriti Sanon has never been one to mince her words. Whether it’s her choice of versatile roles or her recent transition into production with Do Patti, the actress has always been a trailblazer. In a recent interview with GQ India, she highlighted the reality of Bollywood’s financial dynamics, highlighting how gender bias still exists.

Kriti Sanon talks about gender bias and patriarchy in Bollywood

National Award winner, Kriti Sanon, addressed the long-standing debate on pay parity in the industry. In a chat, she admitted that there’s been some struggle around money in Bollywood. “When they (producers) have to cut corners, they often negotiate down the female lead’s fee, even though a large chunk of the budget goes to the male actor,” Kriti told the magazine.

She emphasized that while the industry is evolving, the mindset remains stuck in the past. “Patriarchy is still deeply ingrained in the industry, and we have to keep shaking things up to move toward equality. It’s subconscious, but it needs to change.”

Recalling her earlier days in the industry, Sanon shared how she noticed unequal treatment compared to her male co-stars. “I remember small things, like a male co-star, who wasn’t even a senior, getting a better car than me. It wasn't about the car, but about being respected equally,” the Do Patti fame divulged.

She also noted that sets are often managed to ensure the male actor doesn’t have to wait. Hence, the female lead is called for hair and makeup much earlier. Even though he has tried to stand up for herself, but early in her career, it was difficult to voice everything. “Most producers and directors today are progressive, but these biases still exist,” she also expressed.

What’s next for Kriti Sanon?

While Kriti is busy being a producer and leading her skincare brand, the actress is also busy dominating the screen. Her fans are eagerly waiting to see her in Cocktail 2, the spiritual sequel to the 2012 hit. Helmed by Homi Adajania, the movie also stars Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna and is set to hit cinemas on June 19, 2026.

For more updates, stay tuned to Pinkvilla!

ALSO READ: Cocktail 2 Release Date: Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Kriti Sanon’s romantic drama to hit cinemas on June 19,2026

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