The Changing Face of Indian Cinema

The Indian cinema industry has changed significantly since 1947. It has made a name for itself and is famed for its technique. Indian films are now competing on the world stage with western productions.

Indian productions are winning prestigious international awards and thanks to the success of Indian cinema across the world, the rich cultural traditions of Indian dance and music now also have a global audience.

Culture is the underlying current of a society and cinema in particular mirrors society. It reflects many of the trends, current virtues, social struggles and living patterns. Indian cinema portrays the essence of Indian society.

The ethnic and traditional values of the Indian society, its cultural diversity and above all, the unity among the varied cultural and religious sects, is highlighted by Indian cinema.

Early days

At first, Indian cinema focused on mythological stories and great epics such as the country's first feature "Raja Harishchandra directed by Dadasaheb Phalke in 1913.

During the freedom struggle, cinema was used as a medium to show anger and voice the opinion of nationalist leaders and parties demanding independence from British colonial rule.

After Independence, cinema became a vehicle for addressing social ills. Bollywood portrayed a society which was both desired and achievable.

In the golden era of Bollywood films, from the 1950s to the late 1970s, an India which was rural but had rich and vibrant traditions was portrayed. Films showcased the relationships, customs, norms and ethics of Indian society.

The burning issue of poverty was also addressed. Film audiences could identify with the on-screen protagonists whose lives reminded them of their own.

"Kaagaz Ke Phool", "Mother India", "Pakeezah", "Half Ticket" or" Padosan" are just a few titles from this golden era of Bollywood film-making.

Action era

But then came the 1980s and the "action era". The Bollywood heroine lost her strength and space to the hero. She was reduced to being a glamorous prop, dancing around trees, or (much worse) being kidnapped, raped or killed.

Now, as globalisation has taken hold, Indian cinema is becoming increasingly influenced by western cinema.

Bollywood has imported technical expertise from overseas and many films are shot on location in the west. Many Bollywood films are based on Hollywood blockbusters.

Indian films are screened in over a hundred countries and watched by nearly four billion people world-wide. The Indian film industry is considered to be the largest film industry in the world in terms of number of films produced and released -- more than 800 films are made in India each year, whereas Hollywood produces less than 400 movies per year, according to available records.