In the run-up to India's elections, concerns are mounting over the Modi govt's alleged influence on Bollywood, with critics claiming it's a tool for political propaganda.
According to industry insiders and analysts, there's a surge in films promoting Hindu nationalist ideologies aligned with the govt's agenda.
The Guardian highlighted over a dozen recent releases allegedly towing the govt line, prompting fears of deepening religious divides. Professor Dr Sayandeb Chowdhury from Krea University warns that these films are being used to spread misinformation, further polarizing society.
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Former journalist Kandan Shashiraj has accused the industry of suppressing truth and manipulating narratives to serve political interests. Reports from Al Jazeera point to a significant number of films with Islamophobic themes hitting streaming platforms ahead of the election, suggesting a broader campaign to assert control over Bollywood.
Critics argue that by embedding govt speeches and extremist ideologies into cinema, the Modi administration is exacerbating tensions and marginalizing minority communities. This alleged manipulation of the film industry poses a threat to social cohesion, with concerns growing over its impact on religious and cultural harmony in India.
