The Changing Trends in Indian Cinema during the 1960s to 1990s


Indian cinema, popularly known as Bollywood, has witnessed significant changes in its trends from the 1960s to the 1990s. This period marked a transition from the golden era of romantic musicals to a more realistic and socially conscious approach. Let's delve into the key trends and transformations that occurred during this time.


During the 1960s, Indian cinema primarily focused on romantic musicals that showcased extravagant song and dance sequences. However, in the 1970s and 1980s, there was a noticeable shift towards socially conscious films that addressed critical social issues such as poverty, corruption, and injustice.


Parallel cinema, also known as art cinema or the New Wave movement, gained prominence during the 1960s and 1970s. Filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, and Shyam Benegal spearheaded this movement, focusing on realistic and thought-provoking stories with minimalistic aesthetics. Parallel cinema explored themes like rural life, social inequalities, and political unrest.


Simultaneously, the 1970s witnessed the rise of action-packed masala films. These movies combined elements of romance, comedy, drama, and high-octane action sequences to cater to the mass audience. Popular actors like Amitabh Bachchan became iconic figures, starring in blockbuster films like "Sholay" and "Deewar."


The 1980s and 1990s marked a period of commercialization and globalization in the Indian film industry. Films started incorporating more extravagant sets, larger budgets, and international locations. The influence of western cinema became more pronounced, leading to the emergence of Bollywood as a global brand.


During this period, Indian cinema began to experiment with a variety of genres and narrative styles. Filmmakers like Mani Ratnam introduced a new wave of romantic dramas with complex characters and layered storytelling, as seen in films like "Roja" and "Dil Se." Additionally, the crime thriller genre gained popularity with movies like "Parinda" and "Baazigar."


Technological advancements also played a significant role in shaping Indian cinema during the 1960s to 1990s. The introduction of color films, improved sound recording, and the transition from celluloid to digital filmmaking revolutionized the industry, enhancing the visual and auditory experience for the audience.


The changing trends in Indian cinema from the 1960s to the 1990s reflect a dynamic and evolving industry. From the romantic musicals of the 1960s to the socially conscious and commercially driven films of the subsequent decades, Indian cinema has continually adapted to the changing times, experimenting with genres, narratives, and technological advancements. These developments have contributed to the growth and global recognition of Bollywood as a major film industry.