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How Indian Films Has Evolved Over Times And Becoming The Second Hollywood!

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By Kanan Parmar
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BOLLYWOOD

Credits: Feeding Trends

Certainly! Over the years, Indian films have undergone a significant transformation in terms of themes, storytelling, and presentation. In the early decades of Indian cinema, movies often centered around religious and mythological stories, showcasing a strong influence of cultural and traditional values. These films were characterized by their dramatic narratives, moral lessons, and often carried a patriotic undertone, reflecting the sentiments of a nation striving for independence.

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As time progressed, Indian cinema evolved to encompass a wider array of genres and themes. The 1950s and 60s witnessed the emergence of socially relevant films that addressed issues such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice. This marked a departure from the earlier mythological focus and introduced a more realistic approach to storytelling.

 In the subsequent decades, the industry experienced a surge in romance and family dramas, which catered to a broader audience. However, the 1990s brought a significant shift with the rise of "Bollywood" - a term that refers to the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai. This era saw a fusion of melodrama, song-and-dance routines, and glamorous storytelling that gained popularity not only in India but also among audiences abroad.

In recent years, Indian cinema has indeed witnessed a trend towards films with more global appeal. There's been a noticeable influence of Hollywood in terms of storytelling techniques, production values, and even genres. Filmmakers have explored genres like sci-fi, thriller, and action, expanding the creative boundaries of Indian cinema.

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While the influence of religion, patriotism, and drama hasn't entirely disappeared, the industry now offers a diverse range of films that explore contemporary societal issues, human relationships, and individual aspirations. This evolution has allowed Indian cinema to cater to a more diverse audience both domestically and internationally, contributing to its status as one of the largest film industries in the world.

Ultimately, a diverse range of films can contribute to a more comprehensive portrayal of India’s identity and values, catering to the interests of a broad spectrum of audiences both within the country and around the world.

Certainly, here are a few Bollywood films that have been known for portraying different aspects of India's culture, diversity, and identity:

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1. *Lagaan (2001)* - This historical sports drama set during the British colonial era showcases unity among people from different religions and backgrounds as they come together to play a cricket match against their British rulers.

2. *Swades (2004)* - This film explores the story of an Indian scientist working in the United States who returns to his homeland to bring about positive change in a rural village.

 3. *Rang De Basanti (2006)* - This film delves into the lives of a group of young individuals who are cast in a documentary about India's freedom fighters, leading them to question their own responsibilities towards the nation.

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 4. *My Name Is Khan (2010)* - This movie tackles the theme of religious diversity and tolerance as it follows a Muslim man with Asperger's syndrome who embarks on a journey to meet the President of the United States.

 5. *PK (2014)* - This satirical comedy raises questions about religious dogma and practices as an alien visitor explores various facets of Indian society, including its religious diversity.

These films offer glimpses into the diverse fabric of India, its social issues, and its people's aspirations. Each film showcases different elements of the country's culture, challenges, and values, contributing to a multifaceted portrayal of "true India."

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Here are some Bollywood films that provide insights into India’s rich and diverse culture:

 1. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) - This iconic film beautifully captures traditional Indian family values, customs, and celebrations, while also depicting the clash between tradition and modernity.

 2. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) - Set against the backdrop of vibrant Gujarat, this film showcases Indian classical music, dance, and the complexities of love and relationships.

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4. Jodhaa Akbar (2008) - A historical drama set in the Mughal period, this film provides a lavish portrayal of the culture, architecture, and intricacies of courtly life during that era.

5. Barfi! (2012) - This heartwarming film set in the hills of Darjeeling captures the essence of small-town life in India, celebrating the simplicity, diversity, and charm of the place.

 6. Gully Boy (2019) - Reflecting the urban hip-hop culture emerging in India, this film explores the lives of street rappers from Mumbai, touching upon themes of self-expression, music, and aspirations.

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 7. Ludo (2020) - While primarily a dark comedy, the film showcases glimpses of urban Indian life and its various cultural elements through its interconnected storylines

 9. Tumbbad (2018) - A fantasy-horror film with deep cultural undertones, Tumbbad draws from Indian mythology and legends, presenting a unique blend of folklore and storytelling.

 These films offer a diverse array of cultural aspects, from traditional practices to contemporary urban life, and provide a window into the myriad facets of India’s vibrant culture.

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