The Eras of Bollywood
Times of Bennett | Updated: Mar 27, 2023 11:32
Our beloved Bollywood is one of the largest and most influential film industries in the world basically "bhagwaan ka diya hua sab kuch hai, daulat hai, shohrat hai..." since its inception in the 20th century, it has completed a journey of more than a 110 years since the first film released in 1913 Bollywood has gone through several eras, each characterized by its own unique style, themes, and cinematic trends, now who knew that Bollywood has also categorised itself into different time periods or as they call it
theeras of Bollywood . Its as if Bollywood is a real person and is growing day by day. So, in this blog we will understand the concepts used, the films made and the big shots of the time and when they really came into the lime light.
The Silent Era (1899-1931)
The silent era of Bollywood, also known as the pre-talkie era, marked the beginning of Indian cinema. The first Indian silent film,Raja Harishchandra , was released in 1913. During this era, filmmakers experimented with the medium of film and developed their own unique storytelling techniques. The films of this era were characterized by elaborate sets, theatrical acting, and melodramatic plots.
The Golden Era (1940s-1960s)
The Golden Era of Bollywood is often considered the golden age of Indian cinema. During this era, filmmakers likeRaj Kapoor , Guru Dutt, and Bimal Roy created some of the most iconic films in Indian cinema history. The films of this era were known for their social commentary, realistic acting, and nuanced storytelling. This era also saw the rise of legendary actors like Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, and Raj Kapoor . This era also saw films which were made to raise awareness about various social evils, like dowry, sati,etc…
The Masala Era (1970s-1990s)
The Masala Era of Bollywood marked a shift in the style of Indian cinema. The films of this era were known for their larger-than-life characters, over-the-top action sequences, and catchy songs. This era also saw the rise of the "masala movie," a genre of Bollywood films that combined elements of romance, action, drama, and comedy. This era was dominated by stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Shashi Kapoor. Basically ‘chhota packet bada dhamaaka’ with a little of everything, these films captured a wide range of audience and had something for everyone.
The New Wave Era (1990s-2000s)
The New Wave Era of Bollywood marked a departure from the mainstream, masala movies of the previous era. Filmmakers likeRam Gopal Varma , Shekhar Kapur, and Mani Ratnam created films that were more realistic, socially conscious, and experimental. This era also saw the rise of a new generation of actors like Shah Rukh Khan , Aamir Khan, and Hrithik Roshan. Various themes became popular and romance and light action were the most popular ones.
The Contemporary Era (2010s-present)
The Contemporary Era of Bollywood is marked by the globalization of Indian cinema. Films of this era have a more international appeal and are made for a global audience. This era is characterized by the rise of female-centric films, more experimental storytelling, and the emergence of new stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Alia Bhatt.
Today Bollywood explores a wide range of things be it talking about taboo subjects like LGBTQIA+ rights or the depiction of women in leading roles, Bollywood is trying to fight the regular stereotypical mindsets, something to which it ironically contributed to.
Being a Bollywood fan who has watched movies ranging from different eras I with all my heart love the 90s era. From the silent era to the contemporary era, Bollywood has evolved with the times and continues to captivate audiences around the world with its unique style and storytelling.
the
The Silent Era (1899-1931)
The silent era of Bollywood, also known as the pre-talkie era, marked the beginning of Indian cinema. The first Indian silent film,
The Golden Era (1940s-1960s)
The Golden Era of Bollywood is often considered the golden age of Indian cinema. During this era, filmmakers like
The Masala Era (1970s-1990s)
The Masala Era of Bollywood marked a shift in the style of Indian cinema. The films of this era were known for their larger-than-life characters, over-the-top action sequences, and catchy songs. This era also saw the rise of the "masala movie," a genre of Bollywood films that combined elements of romance, action, drama, and comedy. This era was dominated by stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Shashi Kapoor. Basically ‘chhota packet bada dhamaaka’ with a little of everything, these films captured a wide range of audience and had something for everyone.
The New Wave Era (1990s-2000s)
The New Wave Era of Bollywood marked a departure from the mainstream, masala movies of the previous era. Filmmakers like
The Contemporary Era (2010s-present)
The Contemporary Era of Bollywood is marked by the globalization of Indian cinema. Films of this era have a more international appeal and are made for a global audience. This era is characterized by the rise of female-centric films, more experimental storytelling, and the emergence of new stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Alia Bhatt.
Today Bollywood explores a wide range of things be it talking about taboo subjects like LGBTQIA+ rights or the depiction of women in leading roles, Bollywood is trying to fight the regular stereotypical mindsets, something to which it ironically contributed to.
Being a Bollywood fan who has watched movies ranging from different eras I with all my heart love the 90s era. From the silent era to the contemporary era, Bollywood has evolved with the times and continues to captivate audiences around the world with its unique style and storytelling.
