Bollywood, a term that combines “Bombay” and “Hollywood,” is the popular name for the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest and most influential film industries in the world.
Bollywood is known for its vibrant, high-energy films, which feature iconic song-and-dance sequences, dramatic storytelling, and musicality. From its early days of black-and-white films like Mughal-e-Azam and Pyaasa, which captured the essence of India’s cultural and social fabric, to blockbusters like Sholay and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Bollywood has continued to evolve with the times. The influence of Bollywood is far-reaching, with Indian diaspora communities worldwide embracing Bollywood films, music, and actors. It has also shaped global pop culture, cementing its place as an iconic and powerful force in the entertainment world.
However, in recent years, the industry has experienced a decline in box office numbers, compounded by factors such as the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms and the global COVID-19 pandemic, which forced theatres to close for extended periods. Audiences, now accustomed to on-demand content, have gravitated toward digital platforms. This shift has led to a restructuring of how films are produced, marketed, and consumed. The focus has now shifted to a more nuanced storytelling, experimental filmmaking, and an exploration of real-world issues, aiming to propel its reach through both theatres and OTT platforms.
In addition to these challenges, Bollywood has faced major controversies, particularly after the tragic suicide of actor Sushant Singh Rajput in 2020. His death ignited widespread discussions about mental health, the pressures of the film industry, and the issue of nepotism. Many pointed to the favoritism shown to industry insiders and the lack of opportunities for outsiders, which led to accusations of a closed and biased system. Furthermore, reports of drug abuse within Bollywood, especially in the aftermath of Rajput’s death, fueled media scrutiny.
In a country where about 2000 films are released in a year and where the total population is 1.5 billion, 57 members is not a guild but a pathetic little clique. And, a quick word on the Print’s editorial standards – whatever happened to full disclosure? This so called “guild” is chaired by Anupama Chopra and has Sucharita Tyagi as its vice chair! Essentially Ms. Chopra and Ms. Tyagi have put out a statement themselves in their own favour. If this isn’t a self-serving feedback loop, then I don’t know what is!
You, as a responsible news outlet, should take cognisance of the prevailing public sentiment. It is also your prerogative to protect your Khan Market fraternity and to state your position clearly, consequences be damned
57 people in a country of 1.5 billion is not a guild, it’s a clique.
I watched the movie because of all the noise and I am sorry what is it that I missing over here ? Clearly all the criticism comes because of people’s questionable political views