Cinema in India plays a pivotal role in the cultural fabric. As a form of mass media, cinema addresses social concerns and influences the human psyche. In addition, it raises awareness, fosters empathy, and drives social change. With their wide reach and emotional appeal, films have influenced the minds of people for ages. When we talk about the role of Indian Cinema with regards to social issues, we can say that cinema has a deep impact on how we perceive the world. Let’s read how certain films have addressed the social issues of India:

Films addressing social issues:

Films like “Do Bigha Zamin” (1953), “Mother India” (1957), “Sujata” (1959), and “Article 15” (2019), address and tackled social issues such as untouchability, caste discrimination, and conditions of the lower caste. Moreover, these movies highlighted these issues in the forefront. The aim behind these movies were to highlight the social taboos of India.

Films adding educational value:

“Lagaan” (2001), “Mangal Pandey: The Rising” (2005), and “Toilet: Ek Prem Katha” (2017), are some of the prominent examples of films adding educational value. “Lagaan” and “Mangal Pandey: The Rising” highlighted India’s strife for independence, and “Toilet: Ek Prem Katha” promoted the importance of sanitation. Movies like this aim to educate their audience and wish to bring social change.

Indian Cinema fostering empathy and equality:

Movies such as “Dangal” (2016), and “Pink” (2016) highlight the need for women empowerment and equal rights. Similarly, “Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan” (2020), and “Badhaai Do” (2022) focus on bringing LGBTQ+ stories to mainstream audiences, fostering empathy and acceptance. In the same vein, “Taare Zameen Par” (2007) and “Black” (2005) highlight the challenges faced by disabled individuals, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.

While there are several other examples to highlight the role of movies in the Indian social condition, one can say that these movies have brought revolutionary changes. Some other examples of movies bringing a turnaround are “My Name is Khan” (2010), “PK” (2014), “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008), “Section 375” (2019), “Rang De Basanti” (2006), and more. These movies have not only addressed issues of women safety, equality, and consent, but also other topics such as stereotypes for the impoverished, and youth activism.