indian cinema essay in english

Why The Golden Era of Indian Cinema Was So Important

Nasreen munni kabir on hindi cinema's most iconic era.

By Google Arts & Culture

Still from film "Raja Harishchandra" (1913) by Dadasaheb Phalke

When India became independent in 1947, it already had a blossoming film industry that had been going from strength to strength since its birth in 1913. By the late 1930s, films were being produced in every major city and in every major language. India’s first feature, Raja Harishchandra , tells the story of a righteous king and showed a brilliant understanding of Indian audiences by the film's director, D.G. Phalke. Phalke, and the other filmmakers of his generation, knew they could instantly win vast audiences by rooting cinema in Hindu mythology with stories of religious and divine characters.

As a result, the silent era was dominated by on-screen gods and goddesses battling good against evil, overcoming moral dilemmas and setting an example of virtuous behavior. In small towns and cities, you didn't go to the cinema to enjoy a novel story, but to meet valiant characters whose tales you had grown up with. The early heroes and heroines became the models for future protagonists, and made the films resemble tales of morality that depended on stereotypical characters.

India’s first feature was based on a mythological character Raja Harishchandra (1913) and directed by D G Phalke, known as the father of Indian cinema. Photo courtesy of the National Film Archive of India/Hyphen Films Collection, London.

Still from India’s first talkie "Alam Ara" (1932) by Ardeshir Irani

When sound film arrived in 1931 with Alam Ara , filmmakers turned to urban and folk theatre, weaving Arabian love stories, music, song, dance and dramatic dialogue into a multi-genre three-hour entertainment. Sound film brought linguistic diversity and division, and as a result audiences were split into different language groups. Although today Tamil cinema produces the greatest number of films each year, Hindi/Urdu films — now known as Bollywood and distributed globally — has had an advantage over other language groups since the 1930s, as millions can understand Hindi and Urdu. Photo courtesy of Hyphen Films Collection, London.

India’s first talkie Alam Ara (1932) directed by Ardeshir Irani. From the first sound film, songs formed an integral part of the narrative.

The basic structure of the multi-genre film has stayed largely the same for many decades, and even now audiences are well accustomed to a roller-coaster narrative that ends up conforming to tradition in some way or other. Realism is not at the top of the movie menu — a familiar story, strong values, catchy songs, elaborate action, dance routines, and above all, adored stars are the main draws. However, today there is a greater variety in Indian cinema; we see smaller budget films with more realistic stories and naturalistic acting alongside the big blockbusters. This trend was started in Bengal in the mid-50s by the brilliant director Satyajit Ray, and later came to Hindi cinema in the late 1960s.

It is a vibrant time in Bollywood in the present day, and yet nearly every top filmmaker, writer or lyricist will unreservedly agree that the true Golden Age of Hindi cinema dates back to 1948-1965. When you ask a young director or lyricist about the films they like, they will invariably mention a movie of the 1950s, and name a favorite director of that era who still remains an ideal and an influence.

Still from film "Kismet" (1943) by Gyan Mukherjee

Produced by Bombay Talkies, Kismet (1943) directed by Gyan Mukherjee, famously ran for three years in a Kolkata cinema. The scene depicted here is the patriotic song “Door Hato O Duniyawale, Hindustan Hamaara Hai” (Invaders go away! India is ours!). Photo courtesy of Hyphen Films Collection, London.

Unsurprisingly, Hindi cinema’s Golden Age coincided with independence in India and followed the trauma of the Partition. It was a time of great change, politically and socially. By the end of the 40s, film practitioners from all over the country, and the cities that became Pakistan gravitated towards Mumbai, seeing it as the new filmmaking centre.

Talented directors, cinematographers, art directors, music composers, actors, choreographers, singers, and, especially, writers and poets who belonged to the Communist Party and gave 1950s cinema its social relevance through story and song, flocked to Mumbai to make their mark. In this Nehruvian period, great hope was pinned on nation-building and many of the films reflected the mood of change.

Mostly shot in black and white, the films had cinematic flair and were varied in subject and treatment. Some stories told of the struggles of the poor while others provided romantic and musical entertainment. The stars who had been formally tied to a single studio in the 1940s were no longer confined to working at only one, and so appeared in dozens of films of the era. The rise of star dominance finds its roots here.

Still from film “Amar Jyoti” (1936) by V. Shantaram

Amar Jyoti , a 1936 classic directed by the great V. Shantaram. The film was produced by Prabhat Film Company, starring the remarkable actress Durga Khote. Photo courtesy of Hyphen Films Collection, London.

Ultimately it is time alone that curates classics. And when we look back at the Golden Age, we see countless examples of excellence. Images of those black and white films still haunt us, the performance of immortal stars still touch us with a single look or smile, those heartbreaking stories of struggle still move us, and a melodic old song with beautiful words can flood us with feeling. There are volumes to say about those wonderful films and the exceptional artists, on and off screen, who gave those classic movies enduring life.

Born in India, Nasreen Munni Kabir is a London-based filmmaker/author who has made dozens of documentaries on Hindi cinema and written sixteen books on the subject. Kabir has served a six-year term as governor on the board of the British Film Institute and has curated the annual Indian film season on UK’s Channel 4 TV for over thirty years.

Words by: Nasreen Munni Kabir

Damodar Kamat

Museum of art & photography, with great ease: the photography of t.s. satyan, visible/invisible, the legend of guru dutt: a rebel without a cause, bombay cinema - a melting pot of cultures, light it up, comedy and play, to see is to hear, between artist & canvas, jhansi ki rani: the first technicolor film.

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Indian Cinema: A Very Short Introduction

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One film out of every five made anywhere comes from India. From its beginnings under colonial rule through to the heights of Bollywood, Indian cinema has challenged social injustices such as caste, the oppression of Indian women, religious intolerance, rural poverty, and the pressures of life in the burgeoning cities. Indian Cinema: A Very Short Introduction delves into the political, social, and economic factors which have shaped Indian cinema into a fascinating counterculture. Covering everything from silent cinema through to the digital era, it examines how the industry reflects the complexity and variety of Indian society through the dramatic changes of the 20th century, and into the beginnings of the 21st.

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History of Indian Cinema and its Impact on Storytelling

Indian cinema, a vibrant melting point of cultural heritage and artistic brilliance, has seamlessly blended into global storytelling. From the exuberance of Bollywood to the depth of regional cinemas, the history of Indian filmmaking mirrors the nation's cultural evolution and societal nuances.

Let’s explore the annals of Indian cinema, unraveling its rich history and profound impact on the art of storytelling .

Origins of Indian Cinema

The genesis of Indian cinema dates back to the early 20th century when visionary filmmakers like Dadasaheb Phalke pioneered the art of visual storytelling with the epochal silent film, "Raja Harishchandra" (1913). This marked the beginning of a journey that would redefine the way narratives were constructed, and characters were portrayed on the silver screen.

Golden Era of Indian Cinema

The 1950s and 1960s are often hailed as the golden era of Indian cinema. It was during this period that illustrious filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Bimal Roy, and Guru Dutt, among others, crafted masterpieces that captured the essence of Indian ethos while exploring the intricacies of human emotions. Films such as "Pather Panchali," "Do Bigha Zamin," and "Pyasa" were not just cinematic triumphs but also poignant reflections of the socio-cultural landscape of their time.

Diversity in Regional Cinemas

Beyond the opulence of Bollywood, India boasts a multitude of regional film industries that have etched their own indelible mark on the country's cinematic heritage. From the poetic narratives of Bengali cinema to the gripping dramas of Tamil and Telugu cinema, each regional industry has contributed to the kaleidoscope of Indian storytelling, preserving the essence of diverse cultural narratives and local flavours.

Impact on the Art of Storytelling

Indian cinema has redefined the art of storytelling through its unique blend of music, dance, and intricate plots. Its emphasis on familial bonds, social struggles, and cultural heritage has resonated with audiences globally, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. The incorporation of vivid song and dance sequences, a quintessential feature of Indian cinema, has not only added a distinctive charm to the narratives but has also become a defining element of its global appeal.

Cultural Reflection and Social Impact

Indian cinema has served as a mirror of the country's cultural heritage and societal transitions. It has portrayed the complexities of Indian society, addressing issues ranging from gender disparity and caste discrimination to political turmoil and economic challenges. Iconic films like "Mother India," "Sholay," and "Lagaan" have not only entertained audiences but have also sparked conversations on pressing societal issues, fostering a collective consciousness and igniting movements for social change.

Adaptation to Modern Trends

In the contemporary era, Indian cinema has embraced technological advancements and evolving storytelling techniques. Filmmakers are experimenting with diverse genres, unconventional narratives, and cutting-edge visual effects, catering to the evolving preferences of the global audience. Furthermore, the convergence of digital platforms has provided a democratic space for emerging filmmakers, enabling them to showcase their unique perspectives and narratives on a global scale.

To Conclude….

The saga of Indian cinema is an enchanting tale of cultural heritage, artistic finesse, and social consciousness. From its humble origins to its contemporary renaissance, Indian cinema has evolved into a powerful medium of expression, transcending boundaries and fostering a deeper understanding of the country's diverse cultural construct. Its timeless narratives and impactful storytelling continue to leave an indelible imprint on the global cinematic landscape, cementing its position as a beacon of artistic brilliance and cultural resonance.