Cross-Cultural Synergy & the Progression of Indian Cinema: From Yash Chopra's Legacy to Global Co-Productions

Author: Ayushi Thakur

Affiliation: Department of Journalism, Kalindi College, University of Delhi

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Abstract:​

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The globalization of Indian cinema is one of the most characteristic cultural phenomena of the 21st century. Once patronized by local communities and diaspora communities, Indian films, and more specifically the Hindi film industry commonly known as "Bollywood," have now crossed geographical and cultural borders to leave an irreparable imprint on the world of cinema. This has been possible due to a range of reasons that include technological innovations, economic liberalization, and most significantly, cross-cultural alliances that have redefined the aesthetic and narrative conventions of Indian cinema.

This paper accounts for the evolution of Indian cinema since the early 2000s and specifically identifies the groundbreaking contribution of the legendary director Yash Chopra. In his illustrious career as one of the most influential Bollywood producers and directors, Chopra's vision bridged traditional Indian storytelling with international sensibilities and established a template for contemporary cross-cultural productions. Through his own production house Yash Raj Films, Chopra led the way to a style of filmmaking that maintained distinctly Indian cultural sensibilities but adopted production practices and storytelling models more appealing to international audiences.

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Keywords: Indian cinema, cross-cultural collaboration, Yash Chopra, globalization, Bollywood​

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ISSN 3069-8200