Indian cinema, particularly Bollywood, has seen a noticeable increase in propaganda-driven films in recent years. Several factors contribute to this shift, including political influence, audience demand, economic interests, and the changing role of cinema in shaping public opinion. Here’s a breakdown of why Indian cinema is moving in this direction:

1. Political Influence and Government Support

Many films today align with the ideology of the ruling party, often glorifying historical and political figures in a manner that supports the government’s narrative.

Filmmakers who create content that aligns with government interests may receive indirect benefits such as tax exemptions, easier clearances, or promotional support.

The rise of nationalism has led to an increase in movies that promote patriotic and religious sentiments, often blurring the line between history and fiction.

2. Audience Demand and Market Trends

There is a growing appetite for films with nationalist themes, especially in small towns and rural areas, where audiences connect with patriotic and religious narratives.

Movies like The Kashmir Files, URI: The Surgical Strike, and The Kerala Story have performed well at the box office, proving that such films have a strong market.

In contrast, socially critical or politically neutral films often struggle to gain traction in today’s polarized environment.

3. Shift from Art to Ideology-Driven Cinema

Bollywood once had a strong tradition of socially conscious films (Mother India, Anand, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro), but today, ideological films are more prominent.

The industry has increasingly leaned towards dramatizing real-life events with a selective or exaggerated narrative, often prioritizing a specific viewpoint over nuanced storytelling.

4. Economic and Business Interests

Many production houses see propaganda films as a safe bet because they generate controversy, which increases media coverage and ultimately boosts box office collections.

Political-themed movies often benefit from mass screenings, political endorsements, and viral social media campaigns.

Some filmmakers may also align with the ruling establishment to ensure smooth operations in an industry heavily dependent on government regulations.

5. Changing Role of Cinema in Public Discourse

Historically, cinema was a medium for artistic and cultural expression, but today it plays a significant role in shaping public opinion.

Social media amplifies the reach of propaganda movies, making them more influential than ever before.

With the decline of independent journalism and intellectual debate in mainstream media, cinema is filling the void by becoming a tool for ideological storytelling.

6. Suppression of Alternative Narratives

Movies that challenge dominant narratives or criticize the government often face censorship, legal trouble, or public backlash.

Films like Udta Punjab and Lipstick Under My Burkha struggled with censorship, whereas films with a nationalist agenda often receive a smooth release.

Filmmakers may self-censor to avoid controversies, leading to a lack of diverse storytelling in mainstream cinema.

Conclusion

Indian cinema’s tilt towards propaganda films is driven by a combination of political alignment, economic incentives, audience preferences, and the broader role of media in shaping public discourse. While propaganda films have always existed, their increasing dominance raises concerns about artistic freedom and the future of diverse storytelling in Indian cinema.