The Indian film industry has shown exponential growth over the past two years, especially preceding the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2.7 billion dollar industry has continually reached new heights, allowing it to propel itself into a new era of entertainment while touching the hearts of millions worldwide. 

“As an avid Bollywood connoisseur myself, it is great to see the industry growing so widely and quickly. It’s also always nice to see people that are similar to you on big screens. It makes me feel seen and it makes me excited to see what the future holds,” said Ananya Niranjan (‘25).

The Indian music industry has also played a key role in the rise in the popularity of Indian films. Pre-released songs often engage viewers to look forward to an upcoming movie, often garnering millions of views around the globe. 

“I honestly didn’t even know the movie Beast was being released. That was until I heard the song Halamithi Habibo. The song was literally everywhere, and I think that’s why the movie gained so much popularity,” said Aishwarya Anburaja (‘24).

Movies such as RRR, K.G.F, Brahmastra Part One: Shiva, and Ponniyan Selvan have peaked in sales at the box office. These movies are also starting to become more accessible to the general public, residing on platforms such as Amazon Prime, Disney+, Netflix, and Hulu.

“I really wanted to watch RRR in person, but I, unfortunately, did not have any time to go and watch it. But, one day, I was scrolling through my Netflix recommendation and saw it there. I am so glad the Indian film industry is working harder to provide these movies on streaming platforms,” said Harshita Masineni (‘23).

Film commentators have noted that the Indian film industry is growing for different reasons. However, some have noted there has recently been an influx of Indian movies straying away from the traditional and idealized love story.

“I think one of the main reasons the industry is seeing so much success right now is because of their different approach to storytelling. I’ve seen two movies this year, Rocketry: The Nambi Effect and Ponniyan Selvan. Both take a historical approach to storytelling,” said Devika Subramaniam (‘23).

The Indian film industry is projected to continue on its road toward exponential growth, capturing the hearts, minds, and souls of millions in the process.

“Indian movies will always be special. There is just something about them that makes it a different experience. An experience with more life,” said Gujarat Resident Sukuntadevi Maharaj.