With the advent of women-centric films that defied gender stereotypes and portrayed women in strong, empowering roles, the 1960s in Bollywood saw a significant shift in narrative. Here are some of the best and must-see women-focused Bollywood films from that time period:

1. Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962): Meena Kumari played Chhoti Bahu in this classic movie, which was directed by Abrar Alvi. The struggles of a mistreated wife in a feudal household and her decline into alcoholism are extensively explored in the movie. Meena Kumari's outstanding performance earned her praise from the critics and a Filmfare Award.

2. Bandini (1963): "Bandini" is a potent drama directed by Bimal Roy that centers on Kalyani, played by Nutan, a woman who is incarcerated for murder. Her journey of guilt, atonement, and love is explored in the movie. Numerous people praised Nutan's portrayal, and she was honored with the Filmfare Award for Best Actress in recognition of her outstanding work.

3. Gumnaam (1965): Despite having an ensemble cast, Nanda's Miss Kitty served as the movie's main protagonist. The story of the movie is about a group of people who become stranded on an island, and Nanda's mysterious performance gave the plot depth.

4. Chhaya (1961): With Mala Sinha in the title role, "Chhaya" tells the tale of a woman who forgoes love and happiness in order to provide for her family. One of the notable women-centric movies of the time, Mala Sinha's moving portrayal touched audiences' hearts.

5. Bahu Begum (1967): This movie had prominent roles for Meena Kumari, Ashok Kumar, and Pradeep Kumar. Both critics and viewers praised Meena Kumari's interpretation of a wife who finds herself in a complicated love triangle involving her husband and his friend.

6. Mamta (1966): Suchitra Sen's ability to play both a mother and a daughter in "Mamta" was demonstrated. The sacrifices and difficulties a mother faces when she gives up her daughter for her happiness were depicted in the movie. A Filmfare Award and praise for Suchitra Sen's nuanced performance were bestowed upon her.

7. Milan (1967): "Milan" portrayed the struggles of a woman who marries a man with a terminal illness and starred Nutan and Sunil Dutt in the lead roles. With her sympathetic performance, Nutan won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress.

8. Kanoon (1960): "Kanoon" starred Asha Parekh in a pivotal role as a woman seeking retribution for the murder of her mother. The film was billed as a courtroom drama. Her performance gave the movie more emotional depth.

9. Chhalia (1960): Starring Nutan as Shanti, a prostitute on the lookout for redemption and love, "Chhalia" provided an opportunity for the actress to demonstrate her skill and emotional range in a demanding role.

10. Dil Ek Mandir (1963): Meena Kumari, Rajendra Kumar, and Raaj Kumar starred in this movie, which was directed by C.V. Sridhar. Audiences were profoundly affected by Meena Kumari's portrayal of a terminally ill woman who sacrifices her love for her husband's happiness.

These 1960s Bollywood films with a focus on women defied expectations and praised the grit, tenacity, and complexity of female characters. They are still indispensible must-watch movies in the history of Indian cinema because they depict women as complex beings and are timeless classics.

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