Cinema has long been considered a mirror reflecting the evolving contours of
society. The journey of Indian cinema has been a fascinating one, transitioning
from religious and spiritual themes to patriotic narratives and, more recently,
showcasing a surge in films venting anger against the socio-political landscape.
However, a concerning trend has emerged in the past few years, as Bollywood
witnesses the poor state of womanhood and an increasing glorification of
masculinity.
Evolution of Indian Cinema:
In the 1940s, Indian cinema predominantly revolved around religious and
spiritual themes, offering a reflection of the cultural fabric of the time. As
the decades progressed, a wave of patriotic fervor swept through Bollywood, with
films showcasing the struggle for independence and celebrating the spirit of the
nation. The late 1980s witnessed a shift towards movies expressing discontent
with the prevailing socio-political system, offering a platform for societal
critique.
The Poor State of Womanhood:
However, recent years have seen a troubling regression in the portrayal of women
in Bollywood. A surge in films containing abusive language and extreme
depictions of women has cast a dark shadow on the industry. Songs and dialogues
that reflect women in an extremely derogatory light have become alarmingly
prevalent, raising questions about the industry's responsibility in shaping
societal attitudes.
The Glorification of Masculinity:
Simultaneously, there has been a noticeable trend in the glorification of
masculinity in Bollywood. Muscle power and extreme violence are increasingly
portrayed as synonymous with success, perpetuating a narrative that reinforces
traditional gender stereotypes. The rise of hyper-masculine protagonists often
involves the marginalization and objectification of female characters,
contributing to the overall degradation of womanhood on-screen.
Impact on Society:
The question that arises is whether these cinematic portrayals merely reflect
societal attitudes or contribute to shaping them. It is alarming to note that
such films are not only gaining popularity but are also finding an audience
among women. This shift prompts a critical examination of the evolving mindset
of the country. Are these films influencing societal perceptions, or are they
merely a reflection of existing norms?
Changing Mindsets:
While it is tempting to attribute the changing landscape solely to the film
industry, it is crucial to recognize that cinema both reflects and shapes
societal attitudes. The popularity of movies that glorify masculinity and
degrade womanhood suggests a deeper societal shift in perceptions of gender
roles and power dynamics. It becomes imperative to question whether these
cinematic representations are reinforcing regressive norms or challenging them.
The Concluding Note:
The poor state of womanhood and the increasing trend of masculinity in Bollywood
demand a nuanced analysis of their impact on society. As cinema continues to be
a powerful medium with a far-reaching influence, it is crucial for filmmakers,
audiences, and society at large to engage in a dialogue about the messages being
conveyed. Bollywood has the potential to play a transformative role in shaping
positive societal attitudes, and a conscientious effort towards responsible
storytelling can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable representation of
gender on-screen and in society.
Disclaimer:
Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation expressed
herein are being shared in the public Interest. Readers' discretion is advised
as these are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in
perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue involved
herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor - Patent and
Trademark Attorney
Email:
[email protected], Ph no: 9990389539
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