Indian Cinema: A Global Influence
Indian Cinema: A Global Influence
This is to certify that GROUP -1 (Mahika Jain, Harshika Mishra, Tiya Singh,
Keya Singh, Giridhar Gaur, Swara Gupta, Somya Hans) of class XII-A2 have
completed their research project on ‘INDIAN CINEMA’ in the academic session
2024-25 under my guidance.
The project helped us in learning the art of research and we got to know about many new
things while doing this project.
We would like to thank ALMIGHTY, OUR PARENTS and FRIENDS for their
encouragements without which this project would not have been possible.
We hope that the blessings and guidance given to us from time to time shall carry us a long
way in the journey of life which we ware about to embark on.
Statement Of Purpose
Indian cinema, widely known as Bollywood, has made a profound impact on the global film
industry. With its diverse narratives, lively music and dance sequences, technical innovations,
and artistic achievements, Indian cinema has left an indelible mark on the world of
filmmaking. Our project aims to explore and appreciate the cultural influence, technical
prowess, and global contributions of Indian Cinema.
We will examine the distinct story telling traditions of Indian cinema and how they have
inspired filmmakers worldwide. By analyzing the unique narrative techniques employed in
Indian films, the seamless integration of music and dance, and their impact on global
filmmaking, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of Indian cinema's storytelling legacy.
Additionally, we will delve into the technological advancements that have revolutionized
Indian cinema. From the introduction of sound to the use of cutting-edge visual effects, we
will explore how Indian filmmakers have embraced and utilized technology to enhance their
storytelling. By studying these advancements, we seek to draw inspiration for our own future
endeavors in the world of filmmaking.
Another important aspect of our project is to examine the cultural impact of Indian cinema.
We will analyze how Indian films represent diverse cultures, traditional art forms, and
societal issues, acting as a catalyst for social change and cultural preservation. Furthermore,
we will investigate the influence of Indian cinema on global fashion trends, music and dance
sequences, recognizing its contribution to the global cultural landscape.
Moreover, we will explore the international recognition received by Indian actors and
directors, who have made significant contributions to the global film industry. By studying
their journeys and achievements, we aim to gain insights into their artistic vision, storytelling
techniques, and the barriers they have overcome to reach a global audience.
Through this project, we aspire to deepen our understanding of Indian cinema's rich legacy
and its impact on the world of filmmaking. By analyzing its storytelling traditions, technical
innovations, cultural influence, and global recognition, we seek to gain valuable knowledge
and inspiration for our own creative pursuits. Ultimately, we aim to contribute to the world
of cinema, drawing upon the invaluable lessons and experiences gained from studying Indian
cinema's remarkable journey.
Driving question
How have the rich cultural heritage, technological advancements, and
worldwide contributions of Indian cinema influenced the field of
contemporary filmmaking?
INTRODUCTION
The Indian Cinema also famously known as BOLLYWOOD is the largest in the
world. Bollywood has emerged as a dynamic and influential force in the global
film industry. With a rich history spanning to the early 1900’s, Indian cinema
has evolved and flourished. They turn out more than 1000 films a year to
hugely appreciative audiences around the world. The Indian Cinema offers a
diverse array of narratives, genres and languages, reflecting the cultural
vibrancy and vastness of the Indian subcontinent.
Beyond its sheer entertainment value, Indian cinema has played a pivotal role
in mirroring and shaping society. Films have addressed social issues,
challenged norms, and ignited discussions on a wide range of topics, including
gender inequality, class struggles, political unrest, and cultural identities.
Indian cinema has emerged as a powerful medium for social commentary and
cultural representation, both within India and on the global stage.
In this project we look through the captivating journey of the Indian cinema,
embarking through its historical evolution, cultural impact and its
contributions to the world of film making globally as well. Through the
examination of its technological advancements, societal relevance, diverse
genres, we aim to gain a profound appreciation for the remarkable legacy of
the Indian cinema. By delving into the industry's history, artistic achievements,
and global influence, we seek to unravel the profound cultural impact of
Indian cinema as a transcendent force that unifies and resonates with
audiences worldwide.
Evolution of the
Indian cinema
Indian cinema has undergone a remarkable evolution since its inception in the
early 1900s, leaving an indelible mark on the global film landscape. From the
silent era to the advent of sound, the Golden Age of socially relevant films, the
rise of masala blockbusters, and the exploration of parallel cinema, Indian
cinema has constantly evolved to cater to diverse audiences and reflect the
changing times. Technological advancements, global recognition, and the
emergence of digital platforms have propelled Indian cinema to new heights.
The SILENT ERA of films relied solely on the visual storytelling and the
exaggerated gestures. From 1913 to 1931, all the movies made in India were
silent films, which had no sound and had intertitles. The introduction to
SOUND ERA in 1930’s revolutionized the industry, allowing for dialogue,
music, and sound effects. The first Indian sound film was Alam Ara (1931)
made by Ardeshir Irani. The Golden Age of Indian cinema, from the 1940s to
the 1960s, brought realism and social issues to the forefront, with filmmakers
like Satyajit Ray and Guru Dutt gaining international acclaim.
Uptill the 1950s all the movies being produced had all been in black and white
but the 1960’s witnessed technological advancements and the popularity of
colour films. Masala
By 1986, India's annual film output had increased to 833 films annually,
making India the world's largest film producer. Hindi film production of
Bombay, the largest segment of the industry, became known as "Bollywood".
Indian cinema gained global recognition in the late 20th century, with films
like "Mother India" and "Lagaan" receiving international accolades. Indian
actors also made their mark in international productions. The contemporary
era embraces diverse storytelling styles and technological advancements, with
digital platforms providing a space for content diversity and regional cinema.
We will examine the distinct storytelling traditions of Indian cinema and how
they have inspired filmmakers worldwide. By analysing the unique narrative
techniques employed in Indian films, the seamless integration of music and
dance, and their impact on global filmmaking, we hope to gain a deeper
understanding of Indian cinema's storytelling legacy.
SATYAJIT RAY
• Satyajit Ray was an Indian director,
screenwriter, documentary filmmaker,
author, essayist, lyricist, magazine
editor, illustrator, calligrapher, and
composer. Ray is widely considered
one of the greatest and most
influential film directors in the history
of cinema.
• Ray directed 36 films, including
feature films, documentaries, and
shorts. “Pather Panchali” (1955), won
eleven international prizes, including
the inaugural “Best Human Document
award” at the 1956 Cannes Film
Festival. "Pather Panchali" and
"Aparajito" are renowned for their
lyrical realism and poignant portrayal
of human emotions.
• Ray's unique style, often
characterized by long takes and
minimalist dialogue, created a
cinematic language that resonated
deeply with audiences worldwide.
GURU DUTT
• Guru Dutt was an Indian film actor,
director, producer, choreographer and
writer. He is regarded as one of the
greatest filmmakers of Indian cinema.
• Dutt was lauded for his artistry, notably
his usage of close-up shots, lighting,
and depictions of melancholia. He
directed a total of 8 Hindi Films, several
of which have gained a cult
following internationally.
• Known for his introspective films that
explored themes of love, loss and
human psychology, Guru Dutt’s
“Pyaasa” and “Kaagaz ke Phool” remain
timeless classics. Dutt’s innovative use
of visual metaphors and haunting
melodies added a distinct poetic touch to his storytelling, elevating Indian cinema
to new heights.
RAJ KAPOOR
• Ranbir Raj Kapoor was an Indian
actor, film director and producer,
who worked in Hindi cinema. He is
referred to as The Greatest
Showman of Indian Cinema and as
the Charlie Chaplin of Indian
Cinema. The Government of
India honoured him with the Padma
Bhushan in 1971 for his
contributions to the arts.
• Known for his charming persona
and emotional performances, Raj
Kapoor was a leading actor and
director of the era. His films like
"Awara" and "Shree 420" touched
upon social issues while
entertaining audiences with his
signature style of romanticism and
melodrama. His films also featured
iconic music that became synonymous with the Golden Age.
ICONIC MOVIES OF THE ERA
• Pyaasa is a 1957 Indian Hindi drama film directed and produced by Guru Dutt,
who stars alongside Mala Sinha, Waheeda Rehman, and Johny Walker. Set
in Calcutta, it focuses on the disillusioned Urdu poet Vijay, whose works are
underestimated by publishers and panned for writing on social issues rather than
romantic topics. The film
follows his encounters with
the golden hearted
prostitute Gulabo (Waheeda
Rehman) and his former
girlfriend Meena (Sinha),
how the former helps him to
get his poetry published, the
success of his works, and
his romantic relationship
with Gulabo.
• The film's theme and
philosophy was inspired by
his life experiences in early
struggling days of his life. It
is also surmised that the
story is based on the life of
the film's lyricist Sahir
Ludhianvi who had a failed
affair with poet and
writer Amrita Pritam.
• The film is considered to be
ahead of its time. At the time
of its release, the theme of
the film was unconventional
and hence wasn't widely
admired by critics and its acceptance by audience was doubted. The film
received international acclaim in the 1980s when it was first released in Europe,
subsequently becoming a big commercial success there, long after Guru Dutt
died and is now considered a "seminal landmark" in the history of Indian cinema.
• It was a huge commercial success during its 1984 French Premiere, something
Guru Dutt never witnessed during his lifetime. Since then, the movie has been
screened to huge mass appeal the world over, like the recent screening at 72nd
Venice International Film Festival held in Italy, in September 2015.
COLOURED CINEMA
Colored cinema transformed the world of film, moving beyond black and white
to capture the full spectrum of reality. From silent classics to modern
masterpieces, this journey explores the evolution of color in movies and its
impact on storytelling and visual expression
LEGENDARY ACTORS:
• RAJ KAPOOR
• DILIP KUMAR
• AMITABH BACHCHAN
• SHAH RUKH KHAN
• AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN
• REKHA
• MADHURI DIXIT
CONTEMPORARY STARS
• RANBIR KAPOOR
• DEEPIKA PADUKONE
• SALMAN KHAN
• VARUN DHAWAN
• ALIA BHATT
BLOCKBUSTER
BOLLYWOD MOVIES
• 3 IDIOTS: 3 Idiots is a 2009 Indian Hindi-language coming-of-age
comedy-drama film written, edited and directed by Rajkumar Hirani.
RRR:
• RRR (subtitled onscreen as Roudram Ranam
Rudhiram) is a 2022 Indian Telugu-language
action drama film directed by S. S. Rajamouli,
who co-wrote the film with V. Vijayendra
Prasad
• The film became the third Indian film and first Telugu film to receive
nominations at the Golden Globe Awards, including Best Foreign Language
Film, and won Best Original Song for "Naatu Naatu".RRR also won the awards
for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Song at the 28th Critics' Choice
Awards. At the 69th National Film Awards, the film won six awards, including
Best Popular Feature Film.
• Baahubali: The Beginning along with its successor, is widely regarded as one of
the most influential films of Indian cinema. It became the first Indian film to
be nominated for American Saturn Awards, receiving five nominations at the
42nd ceremony, including Best Fantasy Film and Best Supporting Actress. It
received several accolades such as the National Film Award for Best Feature
Film, and the National Award for Best Special Effects. It won five awards from
ten nominations, including Best Telugu Film, Best Director - Telugu for
Rajamouli and Best Supporting Actress - Telugu for Ramya Krishnan
respectively, at the 63rd Filmfare Awards South.
DANGAL
• Dangal ("Wrestling Competition") is a 2016 Indian Hindi-language biographical
sports drama film directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Aamir Khan and
Kiran Rao under Aamir Khan Productions with Siddharth Roy Kapur under
The Walt Disney Company India.
• The film stars Khan as Mahavir Singh Phogat, a pehlwani amateur wrestler
who trains his daughters Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari to become India's
first world-class female wrestlers.
• Khan had interviewed the Phogat sisters in 2014 on his talk show Satyamev
Jayate, before Tiwari approached him with the script months later, after which
Khan became the lead actor and producer. Set primarily in the Indian state of
Haryana, principal photography commenced in September 2015 in the
neighbouring Punjab.
• Pritam scored the film's background music and soundtrack, lyrics for which
were written by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Kripa Shankar Patel Bishnoi, a coach
with the Indian women's wrestling team, trained Khan and the cast for the
wrestling sequences.
• At the 62nd Filmfare Awards, it won four awards: Best Film, Best Director,
Best Actor (Khan) and Best Action (Shyam).At the 64th National Film Awards,
Wasim won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Geeta's younger self.
Overseas, Dangal won the inaugural Best Asian Film award at Australia's 7th
AACTA Awards,2017's Best Foreign Film and Top Foreign Actor (for Aamir
Khan) from China's Douban Film Awards,and two Jackie Chan Action Movie
Awards,and was nominated in the Asian Brilliant Stars category at the 68th
Berlin International Film Festival.
• Dangal was a commercial success, setting several records at the box office
including highest-grossing Hindi film, highest-grossing Indian film, the 32nd
highest-grossing non-English film (5th highest at the time of release), and the
18th highest-grossing sports film worldwide. According to some estimates, it
remains the only Indian film to cross the ₹2000 crore mark, to this day. The
film has also been watched more than 400 million times on Chinese streaming
platforms, as of November 2018.
INTERVIEWS
RAVI MISHRA- KITNE AADMI THE??
QUES- How do you think the Indian cinema has evolved over the years?
ANS- I think, Indian cinema has evolved as follows – A) Technological advancements from
black & white to digital colour and silent movies to Dolby digital. B) The budget has increased.
C) From the independence theme to common man issues to sci- fi . D) The actors have become
more obsessed with their physical appearance. E) The public doesn’t want to see poverty
anymore. It’s purely about entertainment now.
QUES- What is the first movie you remember watching and how did it impact you?
ANS- The first Indian movie I watched was the war movie – Haqeeqat. The film was based on
the 1962 war with china. It filled me with patriotic fervour. The song – ‘Kar chale hum Fida
sathiyon, ab tumhare..’ used to give me goosebumps . I decided to join the Indian Army and
ended up clearing the NDA written test.
QUES- What do you see as the future of Indian cinema in global context ?
ANS- Once in a while Indian cinema throws up films with good content. Every year thousands of
run-of-the- mill films are made in India in different languages. The film making is still evolving
and has a bright future. Surely, the next decade will be the decade of Indian cinema.
QUES- What are some landmark movies that have defined indian cinema?
ANS- 1.Pather Panchali by Satyajit Ray. 2. Do bigha Zameen by Bimal Roy. 3. Haqeeqat by
Chetan Anand. 4. Sholay by Ramesh Sippy 5. Golmaal by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. 6. Lagaan by
Ashutosh Gowarikar
QUES- If you could recommend one Indian film to someone unfamiliar with the industry ,
what would it be and why?
ANS- I would like to recommend ‘Lagaan’ to someone who is rather unfamiliar with the industry.
The Indians are obsessed with films and Cricket. This movie gives them the thrill of both
simultaneously with patriotic fervour. The film also gives the glimpse of the taxation system
during British rule and the atrocities they had to bear. The film proves that the underdogs are
always supported by the cinegoers.
QUES- If you could live in one era of bollywood, what would it be?
ANS-. If I can , i would like to relive the era of the 70's where Kaka aka Rajesh Khanna was
churning out hits, Amitabh Bachchan was in the mode of becoming a super star and writer duo
Salim- Javed were making a mark for themselves. There were Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Basu
Chatterjee with their comedy entertainers.
QUES- One movie you feel that resembles you or connects to you?
ANS- No film can be made to relate with a person unless its based on autobiography. You can
relate with certain characters of certain films. I would love to relate with Shashi Kapoor’s
character in Deewar or Dilip Kumar’s character in Shakti. QUES- Five words to describe Indian
cinema? ANS- Music, Masala , Masti, Magic and Entertainment!
ADUVAIT VV SHARMA: rishte mein hum tumhare baap lagte hai naam hai shenshah!!
QUES- How do you think Indian cinema has evolved over the years?
ANSWER: Indian cinema has undergone remarkable transformation over the years from black
and white cinema to colored movies involving VFX, editing, better picture quality and portray
new concepts and music.
QUES- What was the first Indian film you remember watching, and what impact did it
have on you?
ANSWER: DABANGG – I liked the boldness of the actor SALMAN KHAN as a honest police
office and the way he expressed the message of fighting against corruption and the power of
Indian police .
QUES- What do you see as the future of Indian cinema in a global context?
ANSWER: According to me OTT is the future of Indian cinema . Also , it serves as platform for
many actors to showcase their talent and get entry into Bollywood. OTT platforms are more
convenient ,cheap and easy to use as per our schedule unlike theatres where we are restricted
.
QUES- What are some landmark films that have defined Indian cinema?
ANSWER: SHOLAY and DDLJ are two landmark films which proved to be the turning point for
Indian cinema . There concept , uniqueness and impeccable execution made them the
blockbusters movies in Indian history . They were a combination of entertainment , humour ,
action , love and thrill which make them a perfect example of ----------------.
QUES- If you could recommend one Indian film to someone unfamiliar with the industry,
what would it be and why?
ANSWER: ANDAAZ APNA APNA will the movie that I would suggest to that person as it
exemplies friendship and love and the way of dialogue delivery by our extraordinary actors
make it super fun .
QUES- If you could live in one era of the bollywood industry which one would it be
ANSWER : I would like to be the part of 2000-2010 era because the execution of the pictures of
that time makes them memorable and different . also the music in those movies is the part I
enjoy the most .
QUES- One movie that resembles you the most or which you connected with the most ?
ANSWER: MS DHONI -THE UNTOLD STORY is the movie that I connect the most to because
of my immense love for cricket and the legendary player MR. Mahendra Singh Dhoni . This
movie potrays his struggle and achievements beautifully adding more to his stature in our eyes .
SHREYA GOYAL : YEH HAATH HAMKO DEDE THAKUR
QUES- HOW do you think Indian cinema has evolved over the years?
ANSWER: Now advance technology , new content has came in picture . the content created in
movies nowadays is very disgusting ,vulgar and full of violence impacting the society wrongly
unlink in old days when it was fun and delightful.
QUES- What was the first Indian film you remember watching, and what impact did it
have on you?
ANSWER: 3 IDIOTS – this picture impacted me a lot in a positive way and gave me a zeal to
learn and taught me how to enjoy the process of studying also the motive of friendship and the
way to live life the way you want to .
QUES- Describe Indian cinema in 5 words .
ANSWER: entertaining , comedy , creative , thrilling , boring
QUES- What are some landmark films that have defined Indian cinema?
ANSWER: DDLJ – that presented an amazing scenic beauty with the dialogues presented so
naturally by the incredible actors that made the movie fun and a piece of perfection . The script
written was not fake and was original to which people were able to connect .
QUES- Movie that resembles you the most or which you connected with the most ?
ANSWER: 3IDIOTS – because as a jee aspirant I myself face so many problems potrayed in
that movie and the struggle of the students . that movie provide me a moral support and bring
positive thoughts to me and I am able to connect to the story line up.
QUES- One recent movie you watched ? did u like it ?
ANSWER: STREE2 the movie overall was full of drama and fun but the ending was highly
disappointing where I lost the interest.
QUES- What are some landmark films that have defined Indian cinema?
ANSWER: SHOLAY – it was an historic film which according to me created so much hype that
still stays alive in most of the Bollywood lovers . the drama and music created by the director
was very attracting and created interest in people .
ANOUSHKA CHAWLA : how dare you? tumhe koi haq nhi ki tum itni khoobsurat
lago. not fair
QUES- How do you think Indian cinema has evolved over the years?
ANSWERS: Now more inclusivity has been added to Indian cinema earlier it was more classic
where almost every story revolved around a girl depending on boy etc.. now more informative
content like women empowerment and the topics like periods on which people are not
comfortable to talks are coming into picture through movies like PAD MAN .
QUES- What was the first Indian film you remember watching, and what impact did it
have on you?
ANSWER: STUDENT OF THE YEAR was the movie I watched first when I was 6 years old after
watching it I wanted to be like SHANAYA seeking everyone’s attention and being that famous
girl among all .
QUES- What are some landmark films that have defined Indian cinema?
ANSWER: 3IDIOTS – that movie made us cry , laugh and taught a lot of things while being so
entertaining .K3G- it’s a classic movie with an amazing story lineup , perfect casting , natural
dialogues and the way in which all the characters delivered the drama is stunning.
QUES- If you could recommend one Indian film to someone unfamiliar with the industry,
what would it be and why?
ANSWER: YJHD- because it teaches us the importance of friendship and love and how valuable
it is to have friends to live life with. How o hold on friendship and how everything is soo peaceful
when we are with our friend . also it emphasize the need of adventure in our lives .
QUES- If you could live in one era of the bollywood industry which one would it be?
ANSWER: it would be 90’s era and I would love to be the part of movie K3G as POOH as it
resembles me perfectly as I also love drama and acting and POOH is indeed the combination of
both .
QUES- One movie that resembles you the most or which you connected with the most ?
ANSWER: JAB WE MET – kyunki main apni favourite hun ..
QUES- 5 words to describe Indian cinema .
ANSWER: drama , diversity, friendship, love and the one and only most important THE SHARUKH
KHAN actually SRK=Indian cinema our KING KHAN .
AYUSH JHA : “ PRATISHTHA PARAMPARA ANUSHASAN”
QUES- How do you think Indian cinema has evolved over the years?
ANSWER: Old films were very low budget , black and white with poor quality of images but
nowadays high budget films like Bahubali with a use of a lot of VFX , good casting, script ,
quality etc.which proves to be huge evolution in our cinema .
QUES- What was the first Indian film you remember watching, and what impact did it
have on you?
ANSWER: DEEWAARR – I learned the message that money is not everything . The
extraordinary acting of AMITABH BACHHAN was impeccable .
QUES- What do you see as the future of Indian cinema in a global context?
ANSWER: Future of Tollywood is going to be amazing in coming years because of the film
execution and fun dialogues . Bollywood films should involve more emotions and expressions
delivering message through their film without the fear of being challenged .
QUES- What are some landmark films that have defined Indian cinema?
ANSWER: movies like COOLIE NO.1 , DEEWAAR, ARADHANA performed by legendary actors
like RISHI KAPOOR , AMITABH BACHHAN etc created a permanent mark in the hearts of
millions of people because of their evergreen concept and execution.
QUES- If you could recommend one Indian film to someone unfamiliar with the industry,
what would it be and why?
ANSWER: I would recommend LAAPATA LADIES , HAIDER AND TUMBBAD films to that
person to make him familiar to the power of Indian cinema , cinematics used and a very good
theme delivered by these movies .
QUES- If you could live in one era of the bollywood industry which one would it be?
ANSWER : I would live the era of 2000-2010 because it was the best movie era the fun
dialogues , idea of the movie , script and direction made them superhits like I AM KALAAM .
QUES- One movie that resembles you the most or which you connected with the most ?
ANSWER: WAKE UP SID – Because it teaches the importance of life and responsibilities ..
Biblography
• Wikipedia.com
• Filmcompanion.in
• IMDb
• Variety.com
• Reddit.com
• Letterboxd
• Movieweb.com