Is Bollywood Fully Supporting BJP’s Hindutva Ideology?

When one conjures images of Bollywood, vibrant dramas filled with lavish dance sequences, melodious songs, and striking fashion typically come to mind. These films are known more for their spectacle and entertainment value than for their narrative depth or social commentary. Gone are the days of the 1970s when Bollywood films frequently highlighted the struggles of the underprivileged and rural communities. The modern Bollywood blockbuster rarely offers lessons on morality or justice, focusing instead on characters who revel in wealth and consumerism, or who propagate Hindu nationalist themes. This raises a crucial question: Is Bollywood fully supporting BJP’s Hindutva ideology?

Bollywood’s Shift from Social Realism to Consumerism

In the past, Bollywood often served as a voice for the voiceless, portraying the lives of India’s poor and marginalized. Films like “Mother India” and “Sholay” tackled issues of poverty, corruption, and social injustice, resonating deeply with audiences who saw their realities reflected on screen. However, the liberalization of India’s economy in the 1990s brought a dramatic shift in focus. The narratives began to celebrate the newfound prosperity of the middle and upper classes, aligning with the aspirations of a rapidly growing consumer base. The heroes of these films were no longer the downtrodden fighting for justice but affluent professionals enjoying the spoils of economic success.

The Rise of Hindu Nationalism in Bollywood

In the last decade, this shift has taken a more pronounced turn towards the promotion of Hindu nationalist ideology, known as Hindutva. This change coincides with the political rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose tenure has been marked by a strong emphasis on Hindu identity and supremacy. Films like “Padmaavat” and “Tanhaji” have faced criticism for their portrayal of Muslims as antagonists and their glorification of Hindu heroes. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards Hindu nationalism and has been supported by public endorsements from several Bollywood stars.

Political Influence and Public Endorsements

Bollywood’s relationship with politics has always been intertwined, with the industry often reflecting the prevailing political mood. In recent years, numerous Bollywood celebrities have publicly supported Modi and his policies. Stars such as Akshay Kumar and Kangana Ranaut have openly endorsed Modi, aligning themselves with his vision for India. This public support is not merely a matter of personal belief but also a strategic move to maintain favor with the ruling powers and avoid potential repercussions.

The Impact of Political Patronage

The Modi government’s influence on Bollywood extends beyond ideological alignment. Instances of backlash against dissenting voices in the industry have created an environment of fear and self-censorship. For example, actor Deepika Padukone faced significant criticism and calls for a boycott of her films after she expressed solidarity with student protesters against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Such incidents highlight the high stakes for those in the industry who dare to challenge the government’s narrative.

Bollywood’s Lack of Defiance

Historically, Bollywood has been criticized for its lack of courage in addressing political and social issues. The industry’s preference for maintaining the status quo can be attributed to several factors, including its reliance on state support and the commercial risks associated with taking a stand. The pervasive culture of nepotism within Bollywood further reinforces the need to maintain good relations with those in power to ensure career longevity.

The Impact of Recent Elections on Minorities

The results of the latest elections in India have significant implications for the country’s minorities, particularly Muslims. The continuation of Modi’s tenure suggests that the policies and rhetoric associated with Hindutva are likely to persist. Under Modi’s leadership, there have been numerous instances of policies and actions perceived as marginalizing Muslims and other minorities. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) have sparked fears of disenfranchisement among Muslims, leading to widespread protests and international criticism.

The alignment of Bollywood with the ruling party’s ideology further exacerbates these concerns. By promoting narratives that align with Hindu nationalist themes, Bollywood reinforces the exclusionary rhetoric and policies of the government. As long as the industry remains complicit, it is unlikely that Bollywood will serve as a platform for challenging the status quo or advocating for the rights of minorities.

Bollywood’s evolution from a medium of social realism to a promoter of Hindu nationalism reflects broader changes in Indian society. The industry’s current trajectory mirrors a nation grappling with the rise of Hindu nationalism and the associated sociopolitical shifts. The public endorsements of Bollywood stars for Modi and his policies underscore this alignment, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the film industry and the state. As long as Bollywood prioritizes commercial success and political patronage over artistic integrity and social responsibility, it will continue to reflect the prevailing mood of India, whatever that may be.

The recent election results indicate that the challenges faced by minorities in India are unlikely to diminish shortly. The continuation of Modi’s government suggests that the current trajectory will persist, with significant implications for the country’s social fabric. As Bollywood continues to mirror these societal trends, the industry’s role in shaping and reflecting India’s cultural and political landscape remains crucial.