Soundarya Sharma Responds to Objectification Allegations in Housefull 5

Bollywood actress Soundarya Sharma, who played a prominent role in the recently released comedy film Housefull 5, has reacted strongly to the ongoing conversation around alleged objectification of women in the film. In a candid interview with DNA India, Soundarya shared her thoughts on the issue, expressing both confusion and surprise at the criticism.

Soundarya Sharma Reacts to Housefull 5 Objectification Claims

When asked about the portrayal of female characters in Housefull 5, Soundarya appeared puzzled. “I don’t see that, I don’t see any of it. Pata nahi aap bol rahe ho toh,” she remarked. According to the actress, she had been too engrossed in the excitement and success of the film to pay attention to what critics were saying.

Soundarya also emphasized the nature of her role, explaining that an actor is merely an interpreter of a director’s vision. “It’s made in a very light way and with heart,” she said, adding that the film’s tone is comedic and not meant to be analyzed through a lens of political correctness.

Public Criticism and Reddit Backlash

Despite Soundarya’s dismissal of the allegations, public sentiment tells a different story. A clip of her interview was posted on Reddit, sparking intense debate. The caption read, “Poor girl’s entire existence in the film was reduced to just being there for the male gaze and she thinks there wasn’t any objectification??”

Comments poured in, with one user saying, “Her answer was as bulls*** as the movie,” while another added, “That’s her relaunch movie, and she is happy to be part of it. What else do people want her to say?” This sentiment resonated with many, pointing out that for a non-nepotistic actress like Soundarya, speaking out could jeopardize future opportunities.

On Female Costumes in Housefull 5

Soundarya also addressed criticism surrounding the attire of female characters in the movie. She defended the costume choices, saying, “I feel not for the first time, anyone has worn something. It’s also the reflection of the society, not that they have plugged something.”

She highlighted that actors in Indian cinema have historically worn a wide variety of outfits, from bikinis to sarees, depending on the script and scene requirements. “People have been wearing all sorts of sarees for songs and everything,” she noted.

Context: Housefull 5 and Its Legacy

Housefull 5 is the fifth installment in the popular Bollywood comedy franchise directed by Tarun Mansukhani and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The film stars Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Jackie Shroff, and more. Released in theaters on June 6, the film follows the same madcap formula that made the earlier entries successful.

However, critics and sections of the audience have raised concerns over the female characters’ lack of depth and focus on their physical appearance. Director Tarun Mansukhani has already defended the film against such claims, stating that the humor was intended to be harmless and in line with the franchise’s tone.

Soundarya Sharma’s Career Trajectory

Before her appearance in Housefull 5, Soundarya was known for roles in films and series like Ranchi Diaries, Raktanchal 2, Country Mafia, and Karm Yuddh. She also garnered public attention as a contestant on Bigg Boss 16. With Housefull 5, Soundarya was expected to gain mainstream traction, making the current controversy a pivotal moment in her career.

What This Means for the Industry

The debate surrounding Soundarya Sharma’s response to objectification criticism highlights a broader conversation about representation and gender dynamics in Bollywood. While commercial cinema like Housefull thrives on slapstick and spectacle, the line between humor and harmful stereotyping is becoming increasingly scrutinized by newer, more socially aware audiences.

Bollywood controversies and the evolution of female roles in Indian cinema continue to shape public discourse, with social media playing a pivotal role in holding creators accountable. For actors like Soundarya, balancing between gratitude for opportunities and the responsibility to advocate for fair representation is a delicate act.

Soundarya Sharma’s stance reflects a complex industry reality where female actors often navigate between maintaining their careers and responding to societal criticism.

FAQs About Soundarya Sharma

What did Soundarya Sharma say about objectification in Housefull 5?
She expressed surprise at the claims, stating she didn’t notice any objectification and emphasized the film was made with a light-hearted intent.

Was Soundarya Sharma criticized for her role in Housefull 5?
Yes, both critics and social media users commented that her role lacked substance and was primarily visual, leading to claims of objectification.

What are Soundarya Sharma’s notable roles?
She has appeared in Ranchi Diaries, Raktanchal 2, Country Mafia, Karm Yuddh, and was a contestant on Bigg Boss 16.

Who directed Housefull 5?
The film was directed by Tarun Mansukhani and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala.

What is the public’s reaction to Soundarya Sharma’s interview?
The reaction has been mixed, with some defending her stance as professional discretion, while others accused her of ignoring critical issues.

What is Housefull 5 about?
It is a comedy film featuring an ensemble cast, following the madcap humor formula of its previous installments. It released in June 2025.