Evolution of Indian Cinema - Ayaat Mir (212)


 

The first motion picture exhibition in India was held in Bombay in 1896. The silent era of Indian cinema began in 1913 with the release of the first Indian feature film, Raja Harishchandra, directed by Dadasaheb Phalke who is also known as the ‘Father of Indian Cinema’. During this era, the Indian film industry was in its early stages and most films were adaptations of Indian mythology, historical events or folklore. These films were typically short, lasting between 10 and 30 minutes, and were often accompanied by live music and sound effects

With India's independence in 1947, Indian cinema became more diverse and regionalized. This period saw the rise of regional cinema in India. Many films focused on the themes of social justice, unity, and patriotism, and depicted the struggles of ordinary people in the post-independence era. Masala films, also known as "Bollywood masala" or "masala movies", were a popular genre of Indian cinema that emerged in the 1970s and gained widespread popularity in the 1980s. They were characterized by a mix of various genres, including action, drama, romance, and comedy. Some of the most iconic masala films include Sholay (1975), Deewaar (1975) and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995).

Globalization brought about an increased exposure to foreign films, music, and culture, which influenced the evolution of Bollywood. The rise of multiplexes and satellite television brought about a new era of distribution, allowing Bollywood to reach a wider global audience. The use of social media platforms, such as Twitter and Instagram, allowed filmmakers to connect with audiences directly and build buzz around their films. Streaming services, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime, also created new avenues for distribution. Bollywood after globalization has been marked by a shift towards more diverse and experimental themes, a greater focus on marketing and branding, and the emergence of new distribution channels and international collaborations. Despite these changes, Bollywood remains an integral part of Indian culture and identity, and continues to captivate audiences around the world

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