Heroine Absent in OTT Too! Men Dominate Here Like Bollywood, What Does the Data Say?

Despite OTT's vibrant posters claiming to bring 'new stories', the hidden reality is reminiscent of the old days. The platforms might have changed, and screens become mobile, but the story's reins are usually held by the hero. Even today, heroines mostly appear in supporting roles, regardless of their presence on the thumbnail. Data tells a similar narrative.

Source: aajtak

When OTT platforms launched in India, there was hope for a transformative change. Stories were expected to be fresh, formats diverse, and characters richly layered, distinct from Bollywood's traditional patterns. However, it's disappointing to note that in terms of gender, the scenario here mirrors that of Bollywood.

Similar to Bollywood's male-centric films, OTT often sidelines heroines from the story's focus. On most shows, women continue to fulfill roles of glamour, emotion, or support, while the storyline's core hinges on male characters.

Decreasing Female Leads in Shows Year After Year

Recent data solidifies this pattern. Ormax Media's report indicates that from 2022 to 2025, male-centric shows flourished in Hindi streaming originals while female-led titles dwindled. In 2022, 39% of OTT shows had male leads, compared to a mere 27% with female leads. The gap widened in 2023, with 43% boasting male leads versus 24% female leads.

By 2024, male-led titles soared to 51%, while female-led ones plummeted to 20%. By 2025, this disparity was at its peak: 55% male leads against just 16% female leads. On a brighter note, 29% of shows provided equal space for both genders.

Despite vibrant OTT posters promising 'new stories,' the backdrop remains quite unchanged. Platforms have evolved, screens are mobile now, but heroes often hold the narrative reins. Heroines largely appear in supporting roles, whether or not their faces feature on the thumbnail. Data reveals a similar storyline.

Source: aajtak

The trend is most evident in the Action, Crime, and Thriller genres, with about 58% of such shows being male-dominated in 2025. Roles like police officers, gangsters, and thugs drive the storylines, leaving limited room for female actors.

Even in non-ACT genres such as human dramas, feel-good stories, or campus setups, balance is lacking. Approximately 52% of shows in these categories are male-led too. The top 10 streaming originals of 2025 reflect this trend.

Understand the Pattern of Top 10 Shows from January to June 2025

Criminal Justice: A Family Matter-

The narrative revolves around a male character entangled in legal battles.

Ek Badnam Aashram, Season 3 (Part 2)-

Centers around a controversial male godman.

Panchayat Season 4-

Follows a young Indian man's journey in rural administration.

Paatal Lok Season 2-

Explores the criminal world through the eyes of a resolute male officer.

The Legend of Hanuman Season-6-

Continues the tale of a mythological male hero.

The Secret of the Shiledars-

Follows a male-centric team on a high-risk action mission.

Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins-

Chronicles a cunning male mastermind and his heist plans.

Only 'The Royals' among the top 10 stands out as a drama series with strong female leads. Other titles like 'Chidiya Ud'—a coming-of-age tale—also buck this trend, offering a refreshing change.