It’s Not Hollywood, It’s Bollywood
When you hear the term “Hollywood”, what do you think of? Sparkling images of red carpets, blockbuster films, and the famous, white-lettered sign in the hills of Los Angeles are likely brought to the forefront of your mind. Hollywood’s reputation as the home of fame and affluence precedes it, but what about when you hear the term “Bollywood”? Coined by the Western film studios, Bollywood is a term for the Hindi film industry in India. Known for its elaborate song-and-dance sequences, striking set design, and romantic melodrama, Bollywood has a unique aesthetic that is all its own.
Kareena Kapoor (center) in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Don’t let the subtitles scare you… there is so much joy to be had in Bollywood. With a general theme of powerful romances, these films are enough to make the hearts of even the most stoic people flutter and ache. India’s culture is generally more conservative than that of America, leading to romances that are less physical and more emotional, emphasizing a subtlety that can be occasionally lacking in Hollywood films. And what is Bollywood without its delightful song-and-dance sequences? Each an ornately choreographed piece, musical scenes are woven into the narrative plot and serve as small detours from reality. Many are surprised to learn that the actors are not actually singing, they are however excellent at lip-synching; Hindi-film songs are highlighted by their use of “playback singers”, which further adds to the degree of fantasy. While they might not sing, Bollywood actors certainly can dance- implementing classical Indian dance styles, like Bharatnatyam and Kathak, fused with modern touches of hip hop. Each routine is so eccentric and vibrant it is almost impossible to take your eyes off of the screen. All about pageantry, storytelling, and culture expressed through song and dance, Bollywood films are celebrations of life in all of its forms.
Aishwarya Rai in Jodhaa Akbar
The relationship between fashion and film is complex and intertwined- further developing Bollywood’s intrigue as it possesses a deep influence on popular Indian fashion. Any outfit donned by an actor or actress in a hit Hindi film immediately becomes the primary trend for tailors to reproduce. Along with the beauty of the clothes themselves, the exalted status of India’s celebrities is the main draw for adoring fans who seek to emulate their style. Visually impactful and versatile, each outfit is a moment unto itself. From the ornate sarees, to the embellished anarkalis, to the beautiful bangles- every look is extremely intricate and unique. Fashion in Bollywood films is colorful and diverse, adding another layer of enjoyment to the viewing experience.
Madhuri Dixit in Devdas
Be it Shah Rukh Khan’s dialogues, Madhuri Dixit’s dancing, or Amitabh Bachchan’s acting- Bollywood films have something for everyone (if you don’t know these household names already, you certainly will!). If you’re looking for the perfect introduction into this gloriously kitsch, melodramatic musical genre, I suggest that you start with the movie that started my obsession- Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. It is currently on Netflix, so when you have a few hours, laughs, and tissues to spare, you won’t be disappointed!
Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Riley Kubaska