The economic reforms of 1991 in India, brought about a paradigm shift, tearing down trade barriers, embracing liberalization, and inviting foreign investment. This pivotal moment not only breathed new life into the Indian economy but also unleashed a whirlwind of global influences that would leave a permanent mark on the country's cultural landscape.
Cultural change, however, is a gradual process, often beginning with consumption patterns. As India embraced globalization, people were exposed to a myriad of new experiences and products.
Suddenly, Pepsi became a familiar sight. Reebok made its way to the Indian market. The arrival of McDonald's signaled the entry of fast-food culture into the Indian culinary scene. Hyundai entered the Indian automobile market. Denim, once a rarity, was soon becoming a staple. (Levis entered in 1994)
But it wasn't just about iconic brands. The television landscape also underwent a remarkable transformation during this period. The influx of foreign films, television shows, and music into the Indian market brought about a significant expansion in the range of content available to the Indian audience. With greater exposure to global entertainment, Indians were exposed to diverse narratives, styles, and genres, shaping their tastes and preferences.
The impact of this consumption-driven cultural shift was profound. A section of Indian society, steeped in traditional values and customs, found itself at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.
Enter Dil Chahta Hai.
Released in 2001, the film explores the journeys of three friends—Akash, Sameer, and Sid—as they navigate the complexities of adulthood. Akash, played by Aamir Khan considers love to be a scam and avoids emotional entanglements. Sameer, portrayed by Saif Ali Khan, falls easily for the idea of love, often mistaking infatuation for genuine affection. Siddharth, played by Akshaye Khanna, experiences a unique love story, defying societal norms of that time. He finds himself falling for a woman who is divorced and considerably older than him, challenging the conventional notions of age and relationship dynamics.
What sets the film apart is its ability to subtly address themes of changing attitudes towards love, evolving gender dynamics, and the pursuit of individual dreams amidst the traditional fabric of Indian society.
The film does not shy away from Western references, seamlessly integrating them into its narrative. In a particular scene, the character Akash, portrayed by Aamir Khan, can be observed watching the popular Hollywood film "Speed." Furthermore, an intriguing aspect of the film lies in its linguistic style, skillfully blending English and Hindi. This linguistic mix aptly mirrors the communication patterns of numerous urban Indian youth, capturing the growing acceptance of a mixed language.
The song "Koi Kahe," is set in a club during a college graduation celebration. The inclusion of clubbing, alcohol consumption, and a more liberal portrayal of relationships, further signifies the changing times.
One of the film's notable aspects is its exploration of the significance of travel. The vibrant energy of Goa adds another layer of cultural infusion to the narrative, capturing the spirit of wanderlust and exploration that resonated with the youth.
"Dil Chahta Hai" was way ahead of its time. It brilliantly portrays the aspirations, dreams, and dilemmas of a nation in transition, capturing the essence of urban India that was yearning to embrace new ideas, experiences, and perspectives. While the lives depicted in the film may not have been representative of the majority of India, it resonated deeply with the collective aspirations and desires of a nation striving for growth, individuality, and the freedom to chart its own path.
Let’s move forward to 2016.
Reliance Jio changed the game. Increasing smartphone penetration coupled with dirt-cheap internet packs, rewrote the script of cultural exchange in India. Suddenly, access to global happenings was no longer limited to those who could physically relocate to cities.
With social media platforms at their fingertips, people from the remotest corners of India could now witness the latest trends, events, and cultural movements happening worldwide. The cost of a smartphone and internet connectivity was enough for cultural exchange. (Has its pros and cons ofcourse)
And, that brings us to Gully Boy.
Released in 2019, this groundbreaking film directed by Zoya Akhtar tells the compelling story of a young rapper from the slums of Mumbai who dares to dream beyond his circumstances.
"Gully Boy" beautifully captures the spirit of the underground hip-hop scene that emerged in the bylanes and neighborhoods of India's bustling cities. The film shines a light on the struggles, aspirations, and resilience of the marginalized youth who found solace and self-expression in the raw and rhythmic verses of rap music.
In my opinion, what sets "Gully Boy" apart is not just its narrative prowess; it is the backdrop against which this tale unfolds. The barriers that once confined cultural expression within specific geographic and economic boundaries began to crumble due to technology, allowing talents from the gullies to emerge.
What makes this cultural shift even more remarkable is the fact that the music depicted in "Gully Boy" often stands outside the traditional realms of Indian culture. Rap music, with its roots in African-American communities, may seem distant from the traditional sounds of India. However, the protagonist of the film, through his passion and talent, not only consumes but also becomes a creator of this form of expression.
"Gully Boy" captures the essence of India’s cultural revolution, where technology has informed and empowered individuals to redefine their identities and narratives.
In the vast landscape of Indian cinema, "Dil Chahta Hai" and "Gully Boy" shine as cultural touchstones that both reflect and shape the society in which they emerge.
It is fascinating to witness the intricate interplay between cinema and society, as films often serve as a two-way feedback loop. They reflect the prevailing climate, mirroring the aspirations, values, and challenges of their time. At the same time, films also have the potential to shape societal narratives, offering ideals, perspectives, and inspiration to their audiences.
The creative brilliance of filmmakers like Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar, who directed "Dil Chahta Hai" and "Gully Boy," respectively, cannot be overlooked. Their ability to capture the nuances of cultural shifts and present them in an engaging manner is a testament to their artistic prowess.
Of course, it is entirely possible that I am reading more into these films than there actually is, but that is the beauty of art and its subjective nature. If you made it this far, thank you! Now go watch a film, or two.
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