13th October 2023,Mumbai: On the occasion of National Cinema Day 2023, let’s talk about our favourite source of entertainment, Movies. The Indian film industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades, reflecting the societal and technological changes. This National cinema Day, we are going in a deep valley exploring the rich history of Indian cinema, From the silent beginnings to the vibrant and dynamic songs and dance we witness today. We are going to delve into the evolution of storytelling, changing the colourful silver screens and the revolution in music length, and the ‘dialogue baazi’ that changed the future of our Indian cinema.
Indian Cinema: The Silent Era and the start of National Cinema
Indian cinema began in the early 20th century, inspired by Western films. The first Indian silent film, “Raja Harishchandra” by Dadasaheb Phalke, was released in 1913. Silent movies were accompanied by live music and elaborate gestures to convey emotions and plot.
A Colorful Spectacle: The Transition from Black and White to Color
The shift from black and white to color films started in the 1950s, adding a new dimension to storytelling. “Kisan Kanya” (1937) was one of the earliest color films in India. Color brought vibrancy and realism to the Indian cinematic experience.
Lyp Syncing: Music Length and its Impact
Music has always been integral to Indian cinema. Initially, movies had shorter musical sequences. However, as time progressed, song-and-dance sequences became longer and more elaborate, a hallmark of Indian cinema. This was a reflection of cultural richness and audience preferences.
Scripted Dialogue: The Change in Storytelling
The introduction of dialogues in Indian cinema revolutionized storytelling. “Alam Ara” (1931) was the first Indian talkie, marking the end of the silent era. Dialogues allowed for more nuanced character development and storytelling, making movies more engaging.
Revolutionary Movies: Indian Cinema in the 21st Century
The 21st century marks a pivotal era in Indian cinema, witnessing a transformative shift that propelled it onto the global stage. Parallel cinema gained momentum, advocating realistic and socially relevant narratives in films like “Peepli Live” (2010) and “Court” (2014), critiquing societal issues. Simultaneously, Bollywood expanded its global reach with movies like “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008), showcasing Indian talent and culture worldwide. Regional cinema, particularly from South India, garnered international recognition with movies like “Baahubali: The Beginning” (2015) and its sequel (2017), setting new industry benchmarks. The digital age fostered independent filmmaking, enabling movies like “Andhadhun” (2018) and “Tumbbad” (2018) to challenge mainstream norms. Technological advancements, including 3D cinema, reshaped storytelling in films such as “Robot” (2010) and “Krrish 3” (2013), integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance the cinematic experience. Moreover, the industry embraced diversity and inclusivity, breaking taboos on gender, sexuality, and mental health through films like “Shubh Mangal Saavdhan” (2017), paving the way for more progressive narratives.
By Harsh Rathod