Bollywood, across the Border

The enormous impact of Bollywood across the border is not a surprise since the two courtiers share numerous social and cultural similarities besides commonality of language. Another aspect is that the Pakistani film industry never developed owing to a number of reasons. This draws most of the Pakistanis to Bollywood for art and entertainment. Nevertheless, the great stories and creativity of the Indian film industry is unsurpassed.

Bollywood has given countless dreams to the youth in our country. From Silsila to Dil Wale Dulhaniya Lay Jaen Gay, none of the generations could escape the charismatic effect of this industry. Quality entertainment as well as profound messages of the Indian films is one of the major sources of leisure to the Pakistanis. We have grown up listening to the melodies of R.D Burman; our audio racks are filled with Lata, Asha, Kishore and Rafi collections. It is astounding but the social set up of India and Pakistan is so much alike that they just do not appear to be foreign movies. The lives and social practices from falling in love to the “bhai log” culture and corruption are shared by the two countries. However, the glamour that is sometimes depicted in the in Indian movies is an exaggeration or has to do very little with reality. I happened to visit Delhi some years back. I kept looking for girls in minis and skirts but could not find any! In fact, very simple women mostly in Sarees or Shalwar Kurtas could be seen in the markets.

Recently, Bollywood has been much influence by the western values and has portrayed them in their movies. This however is casting negative impact on both the countries as free sex and having extra marital affairs is neither the culture of India or Pakistan. I wish that Bollywood remains on its original tradition of producing masterpieces like Sholay, Andhi, Amar Prem and Lagaan. Indian film industry is extremely powerful with regard to its influence and can create magic by promoting positive personal and social values for its own nation as well as the neighboring countries. The talented directors and story writers should pick more affirmative subjects instead of the hollow shimmering standards of the west and stick to its own culture and values. This western influence can lead the youth astray and confuse them with regard to their identity. Bollywood must preserve its tradition and continue to entertain and teach us with what is the best, bolay tou beautiful things!