Historicizing Myths in Contemporary India: Cinematic Representations and Nationalist Agendas in Hindi Cinema

This book explores how Bollywood films shape the imagination of the age, particularly in contemporary India, by examining historical films released since the new millennium. It highlights how cinematic historical representations follow political patterns and market compulsions, creating a narrative suited for the dominant narrative of the present. The chapters show how creating history out of myths validates hegemonic identities in a rapidly evolving Indian society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of Bollywood cinema, exploring its role as a powerful narrative tool that shapes the imagination of the modern age, particularly in contemporary India. It takes a comprehensive look at historical films released in India since the turn of the millennium, examining cinema as a mirror of the ever-changing socio-political and economic landscapes. The chapters in "Historicizing Myths in Contemporary India: Cinematic Representations and Nationalist Agendas in Hindi Cinemas" shed light on diverse perspectives on how cinematic historical representations align with political trends and market demands, favoring certain pasts over others, ultimately crafting narratives that cater to the dominant narrative of the present.

From the iconic "Mughal-e-Azam" to the recent "Padmaavat" and "Bajirao Mastani" to "Raazi," the book showcases how the creation of history from myths validates hegemonic identities in a rapidly evolving Indian society. It offers a deep analysis of these films, examining their themes, characters, and visual aesthetics, and how they contribute to the shaping of national identity and cultural heritage.

This volume is a valuable resource for scholars and students of film and media studies, literature and culture studies, and South Asian studies. It provides a comprehensive examination of Bollywood cinema's historical significance and its impact on the collective imagination of India. By exploring the intersection of history, politics, and popular culture, the book offers insights into the complex dynamics of a nation's identity formation and the role of cinema in shaping it.

In conclusion, "Historicizing Myths in Contemporary India: Cinematic Representations and Nationalist Agendas in Hindi Cinemas" is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of Bollywood cinema's role in shaping the imagination of the modern age. It provides a rich and comprehensive analysis of historical films released in India since the new millennium, shedding light on their themes, characters, and visual aesthetics. This volume is a valuable resource for scholars and students of film and media studies, literature and culture studies, and South Asian studies, offering insights into the complex dynamics of a nation's identity formation and the role of cinema in shaping it.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 233 x 154 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032425214