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.
Mohan and others have given very apt comments. This is the best article I have read about Dev saab.
I had the good fortune to meet him in Imperial hotel in New Delhi in 1970, when I was assigned at early stage of my civil service career. I was invited by him for dinner, through a close friend and mentor. I asked for a friend and colleague mine to be invited to accompany me just to ensure that he would present as witness to our conversation and also to increase my confidence in not only coming face to face with a ‘ star’ , but engage in conversation with him for a whole evening. When we were escorted to his room , and was introduced to him he immediately made us feel at home. I noticed his reputed charm and manner of speaking. But he was relaxed and dressed casually in shirt and pant. Though middle-aged he looked quite young , with the changed hairstyle he had adopted. Yes, he did offer us the Black label. But if I recall he did not have it himself, perhaps because he was to leave early morning for Agra . That’s why we also did not prolong the evening with discussions going on one topic or another and specially questions by us to satisfy our natural curiosity as we were in the presence of one of the top stars of the Indian cinema, a legend and heart throb with huge female fan following. And also aped by huge number of young men for his hairstyle, acting manner and style.
After a long time a piece from you what we longed for – – had me engrossed somehow no proper wor word in my thesaurus to express how I felt reading it
Thank you Shekhar for a lovely article
He personified ‘living in the moment’
Beautiful narrative on the legendary Devanand, offering a ring-side view of the persona and reminisces of times together. He is truly the eternal romantic of Indian cinema.
Though grossly under rated,dev maintained a poise and elegance which very few can match..a leading man throughout…
Dev Saab an ageless saint. Thanks Shekhar ji for share rare information about Dev Saab. A man always be in present is one n only Dev saab.
This article seems to be written from his heart. Excellent article, Shekhar. Loved reading it.
Yes