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By Saptarshi Sarkar
Remember when we used to generalize South Indian films as crazy action flicks with flying cars and people, and call it cringe? Then Rohit Shetty came around and convinced everyone that’s exactly what Bollywood was missing. Funny how things have changed. In fact, in 2023, 5 out of 7 films that made over 500 crores were directed by South Indian directors.
For decades, Bollywood reigned supreme with its larger-than-life song-and-dance routines, star-studded casts, and predictable narratives. Going to the cinema was a family bonding routine in Indian culture for a long time. But lately, there’s been a rise of spectacles from the south, threatening the so-called “Bollywood industry” , by a series of films - all which we’re proud of. This being the advent of Indian Cinema- from the South.
Remember the days when the song "Nakka Mukka" from a South Indian film was a craze all over India? It's quite amusing how things have evolved since then. Back then, a single song captured the nation's attention, but today, entire films like "Baahubali: The Beginning" (with the frenzy of “Katappa ne Baahubali ko kyun maara”) and "Pushpa: The Rise" (with its iconic "Main jhukega nahi'' dialogue) have become national phenomena. These movies are dubbed into multiple languages and set box office records across India. This isn't a sudden explosion; it's the culmination of years of simmering talent finally finding its global audience. So, have the tables turned? Or has the phenomenon just become bigger, expanding from a song being the craze to full-fledged movies achieving nationwide popularity?
Sure, there were always gems that bridged the gap – Mani Ratnam's heart-wrenching "Dil Se.." and “Bombay” or S. Shankar's larger-than-life "Enthiran" (Robot) – but these were exceptions rather than the rule. Language barriers and a lack of pan-Indian marketing kept other incredible stories trapped in their regional bubbles. In fact, we moved to remaking South Indian hits into Bollywood films like “Drishyam,” “Ghajini,” and even classics like “Swades,” “Bhool Bhulaiyaa,” “Sooryavansham,” and “Hera Pheri” (sorry for breaking your hearts, readers).
Historically, South Indian films were often confined to their regions. But now, with smart marketing, films like "Minnal Murali" have shown that subtitles can turn barriers into bridges. Movies like "Baahubali" and "RRR" proved that great storytelling can transcend languages and cultures. They weren't just Telugu hits; they became global sensations, demonstrating that compelling narratives can appeal to everyone.
"Pan-India" isn't merely about adding a Hindi dub. It's about creating stories that resonate with diverse audiences across India. Films like "Baahubali" or "Ponniyin Selvan" (PS-1 and PS-2) are essentially family dramas, portraying ego and emotional clashes that many Indian families can relate to. Similarly, films like "Pushpa," "KGF," and "RRR" reintroduce the modern-day Angry Young Man trope, which was a successful formula in Bollywood in the past. These films blend intense drama, high-octane action, and relatable characters, making them resonate with a broad audience. The rise of pan-India films shows that when stories touch universal themes—like family dynamics, personal struggles, and heroism—they transcend regional and linguistic barriers, uniting audiences across the country.
South Indian cinema is beyond just grandeur; it’s a treasure trove of diverse genres and compelling narratives that stand apart from mainstream Bollywood offerings. Malayalam films, for instance, are known for their deep social commentaries. Movies like "Kumbalangi Nights" delve into themes of toxic masculinity and dysfunctional families, forcing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths. Unlike many Bollywood films that often shy away from such raw portrayals, these films don't just entertain; they provoke thought and discussion. Another Malayalam gem, “Aavesham,” presents a gripping narrative on revenge, while “Bramayugam” explores supernatural elements with a unique cultural twist. These films stand out for their nuanced storytelling and rich character development.
Tamil cinema also brings a unique flavor to the table. Films like "Vikram Vedha" explore the gritty underbelly of society through a cat-and-mouse game between a cop and a gangster, presenting moral ambiguities rarely touched upon in mainstream Hindi films. In contrast, Bollywood's attempts at similar narratives, such as “Raees,” often fall into predictable tropes. Tamil films also offer heartwarming rom-coms like "Oh My Kadavule," which brings a fresh take on love and destiny, unlike many formulaic Bollywood rom-coms. "Super Deluxe" challenges societal norms and delves into complex relationships, offering a multi-layered narrative that Bollywood films like “Kapoor & Sons” attempt but don't always achieve with the same depth.
In essence, South Indian cinema offers a diverse and rich cinematic experience, with each industry bringing something unique to the table. These films push boundaries and explore complex themes, often outshining their Bollywood counterparts in both storytelling and execution, satisfying every cinematic craving with a spicy dish of its own.
Let's be honest, Bollywood hasn't exactly been on fire lately. While it still produces successful films like "Animal," "Pathaan," and “Gadar 2,” a certain formulaic predictability has crept in. Sure, the production values are slick, and the stars are larger-than-life, but sometimes, it feels like we're watching the same story with different costumes. Bollywood seems content to rely on established formulas, neglecting the potential of fresh narratives and innovative storytelling. When films like “Laapata Ladies,” “Madgaon Express,” “Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway,” and “Farrey” don’t make a big mark at the box office, it pushes producers to focus on mass films with big stars that usually the South Indian industry specializes in, leading to back-to-back failures (Bade Miyaan Chote Miyaan, Adipurush, Ganpath).
This isn't to say Bollywood is down and out. It still possesses a strong infrastructure, established stars, and a loyal audience base. However, the rise of South Indian cinema is a much-needed wake-up call. It's a reminder that audiences yearn for originality, stories that challenge and surprise, and characters they can truly connect with.
Take actors like Mohanlal, Mammootty and Vijay Sethupathi, for example. Despite their immense popularity and success in big-budget films, they continue to take on roles in smaller, low-budget films. Mohanlal and Mammootty, legends in Malayalam cinema, seamlessly transition between grand spectacles and intimate narratives, proving that compelling storytelling isn't confined to the size of the budget. Vijay Sethupathi, known for his mass films like "Vikram Vedha" and “Jawan,” played a transgender woman in “Super Deluxe,” a film made on a modest budget, showcasing his versatility and commitment to diverse storytelling.
The phenomenon of stardom is evolving. Audiences today no longer flock to theaters solely because of one lead actor. They seek stories that resonate, regardless of the film’s budget. This shift emphasizes the importance of actors stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing varied roles, from mass entertainers to smaller, story-driven projects. It's the narrative that has become the star, not just the actor.This doesn't mean that big-budget films lack good storylines. Rather, it highlights the changing landscape where the process and method of filmmaking are equally important. South Indian cinemaoften focuses on meticulous storytelling, innovative concepts, and authentic portrayals, which captivate audiences. Bollywood can learn from this model, emphasizing quality over quantity, depth over superficiality. Telugu cinema strikes a perfect balance with its blend of masala entertainment and poignant storytelling. "Arjun Reddy" offers a raw, unfiltered look at love and self-destruction, a stark contrast to Bollywood’s "Kabir Singh," which, despite being a remake, failed to capture the same intensity and authenticity. "Eega" (Makkhi) brings a unique revenge tale with its innovative concept of a housefly protagonist, something rarely seen in Hindi cinema. “Jersey,” a heartfelt sports drama, tells the story of an ex-cricketer's redemption, a narrative that resonates more deeply than Bollywood’s “Azhar.”
South Indian films often prioritize substance and authenticity. They explore diverse genres and complex themes with a sincerity that sometimes gets lost in Bollywood’s pursuit of grandiosity. Bollywood’s reliance on star power and formulaic plots can be countered by adopting a similar commitment to genuine storytelling and creative risks. Kannada cinema, for instance, has made its mark with films like the "KGF" franchise, which combines high-octane action with a compelling rags-to-riches story, setting a new benchmark for Indian cinema. "Kantara," on the other hand, weaves folklore and social issues into a narrative rich with cultural significance, something Bollywood rarely explores with such authenticity and depth.
In essence, the rise of South Indian cinema serves as a reminder for Bollywood to adapt and evolve. By embracing diverse scripts and innovative storytelling methods, Bollywood can continue to captivate its audience. It’s not about the size of the budget but the strength of the narrative and the willingness to push boundaries that will keep audiences coming back for more.
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