This study examines the portrayal of women in Punjabi stage dramas; with specific focus on how audiences perceive these representations and what are the motivations of content creators behind these portrayals. The research critically analyzes the portrayal of women through the lens of Male Gaze Theory, Objectification Theory and Gender Role Theory in order to understand how certain cultural norms and commercial pressures shape the portrayal of women on stage. A mixed-method research approach was used in this study. Quantitative data was collected from 250 participants, comprising 60% male and 40% female respondents, while the qualitative data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with writers, directors and producers which were the part of Punjabi stage dramas. The quantitative findings reveal that traditional portrayal of women significantly influence audience perceptions. Approximately 65% respondents agreed that stereotypical portrayal of women is due to economic pressure, 56% agreed there are certain beauty standards for casting in stage dramas and further 72% agreed that female characters are frequently sexualized on stage. The qualitative findings further support these results by emphasizing that audience demand, commercial pressure and sponsors play a central role in the portrayal of women in Punjabi stage dramas. This study also highlights that economic interest and societal expectations reinforces the objectification and stereotypical portrayal of women, limiting the scope for any diverse or empowering female representation.

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