‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’ to 'Maa': Bollywood movies that prove mothers are the greatest warriors of all time

Rani Mukerji stars as Debika Chatterjee, whose children are taken away by Norway's Child Welfare Services due to cultural differences. Based on a true story, her relentless fight to reunite with her children against a different system shows unwavering and unconditional maternal love. Rani was recognized for her performance of fearlessness, vulnerability and emotional strength.

Kajol stars as the lead in this supernatural suspense thriller, taking on a role as a mother who embodies Goddess Kali in a fight against evil. When girls go missing in the film, Kajol’s character transforms from caring parent to a human being driven by a divine fight for justice—blurring the lines between human and divine. In ‘Maa’, the film suggests that maternal love is tender, yet fierce. Where the mother is characterized as an undefeated ideological warrior, waged against evil. Kajol’s electrifying portrayal adds to the film’s overall effectiveness."

Late veteran actress Sridevi starred as Devki, a stepmother seeking justice after her stepdaughter falls prey to sexual violence. When the justice system fails, Devki takes matters into her own hands, causing the line between morality and revenge to become blurred. This film also encapsulates a mother's utter determination to protect her child. Sridevi was deservedly awarded the National Film Award for Best Actress posthumously in ‘Mom’.

Meher Vij is also excellent as Najma, a supportive mother to budding singer Insia (Zaira Wasim). Najma is trapped in an abusive marriage, and supports her daughter's dream almost secretly by selling her jewelry to buy Insia a laptop. The film looks at the incredible power of a mother's sacrifice and how that can empower them to run away with their ambition. Najma's quiet strength often overwhelmed the primary story thread, but will now be remembered as one of the emotional heartbeats of this inspirational musical drama.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan returned to the silver screen as Anuradha, a single mother and successful lawyer whose daughter has been kidnapped. To save her daughter, Anuradha must defend a criminal in court and go beyond her perceived morality and professional ethics. The film explores a mother's desperation and resolve when faced with an impossible situation, and the many things a mother is willing to do to survive for her child.

Based on a true story, 'The Sky Is Pink' is about Aditi Chaudhary (Priyanka Chopra) and her husband Niren (Farhan Akhtar) as they live life with their terminally ill daughter Aisha (Zaira Wasim). Aisha narrates the film and reveals the strength her mother displayed in keeping the family united. Aditi shows true resilience as a mother, constantly sacrificing her own desires for her daughter and the family, and displays the ability to embrace grief while maintaining hope. Aditi demonstrates how mothers are their own version of warriors.

Raveena Tandon stars as Vidya, a mother and schoolteacher whose daughter is gruesomely assaulted. When the system fails to deliver justice, Vidya goes from victim to avenger, hunting down her daughter’s attackers. The film comments on crime and corruption, while displaying a mother’s vengeance and strength when driven to the edge. Raveena’s performance is visceral, demanding attention to the film’s dark and yet empowering message.