Actor Huma Qureshi, who is earning praise for her lively dance performance in the song "Dil Thaam Ke" from the film Maalik, recently opened up about how Bollywood often puts her in a box. She also spoke about the criticism of item numbers and explained why not all of them should be seen in a negative light.

Criticising Objectification in Item Numbers

While discussing item songs, Huma admitted that “some songs are clearly male gaze-driven.” She added that such songs are created to intentionally objectify women. According to her, scenes like these often make women feel out of place. “As a woman, you get that feeling — ‘I’ve ended up in the wrong place,’” she explained.

However, she clearly stated that not every item number deserves criticism. She said, “As far as you are talking about the song which is celebrating the female form, her sensuality and glamour, there's nothing wrong with it.”

Huma emphasized that there’s a big difference between objectification and celebration. She believes that it’s fine to showcase beauty and sensuality if it’s done respectfully.

Refusing to Be Typecast in Serious Roles

Huma revealed that Bollywood began seeing her only as a serious actress because she started her career with intense roles. As a result, she wasn’t offered dance numbers or lighter parts. But she strongly rejected that narrow view.

“Why should people box me — that you can only do intense film, you are only good at doing this?” she asked. She then added, “Who made this rule?” She made it clear that she wants the freedom to choose her roles. “I can do this also and that too, and choose when I want to do what,” she said with confidence.

Upcoming Release: Jolly LLB 3

After her special appearance in Maalik, Huma is all set to appear in Jolly LLB 3. The film is directed by Subhash Kapoor and stars Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi, Amrita Rao, Saurabh Shukla, and Annu Kapoor. The courtroom comedy is the third in the Jolly LLB series and will hit theatres on September 19.