Kajol has recently addressed the prevalent issue of significant age gaps between male and female actors in the film industry, particularly the recurring 30-year difference often observed on screen. In an interview with The Lallantop, Kajol shared her perspective on this long-standing trend, stating that such "discrimination has been acceptable for so long".
She pointed out that it is common for male actors, even those in their 40s or older, to be paired with heroines 30 years younger than them. Kajol questioned why this has been happening for so long without anyone raising concerns or questioning the message it sends. "Nobody is asking why this is happening or what message it's sending," she said.
Kajol emphasized the commercial aspect of filmmaking, stating, "Filmmaking is a business—you make what you think will sell". She added, "I don't think anybody is thinking that deeply. What people are thinking about is making a film, building a good setup, and pairing the right people together".
Her comments have sparked reflection on casting choices and potential gender-based double standards within the industry. Kajol's observation aligns with a broader conversation about ageism in Bollywood, where male actors often continue to play romantic leads opposite much younger actresses, while their female counterparts face pressure to take on roles such as mothers earlier in their careers.
In the past, other actors have also weighed in on this topic. For instance, Akshay Kumar responded to criticism about romancing younger actresses by suggesting that people were "jealous". Shah Rukh Khan has also addressed the age gap between him and his heroines, noting that he works with the actresses who are working at the time.
Kajol herself has been part of iconic pairings with actors like Shah Rukh Khan, with whom she has a nine-year age difference. While the age gap between them may not be as significant as some others in the industry, it still contributes to the ongoing discussion about representation and opportunities for actresses of different age groups.
Kajol's film "Maa," featuring Kherin Sharma, Ronit Roy, and Indraneil Sengupta, was released on June 27, 2025. She will also be seen in "Sarzameen," alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran and Ibrahim Ali Khan, scheduled for release on July 25, 2025, on JioHotstar.