Since Narendra Modi assumed office in India, there has been a notable increase in the release of 37 films in the Bollywood industry that critics argue portray anti-Muslim sentiments.
Titles such as “Kashmir Files,” “Kerala Story,” and “Lipstick Under My Burqa” have sparked debates about the industry’s portrayal of the Muslim community.
In 2023 alone, six films have come under scrutiny for perpetuating negative stereotypes and potentially fueling animosity against Muslims. Analysts anticipate a further surge in such releases leading up to the 2024 elections, with expectations of at least 20 more anti-Muslim films.
A recurring theme in these movies is the depiction of Muslims as villains, terrorists, or members of criminal organizations, exacerbating communal tensions. Anup Raghav, a prominent Bollywood commentator, alleges that the Modi government provides tax incentives to productions aligning with its political agenda, thus incentivizing the creation of films that negatively portray the Muslim community.
This isn’t the first time Bollywood has been strategically used for political purposes. Prior to the 2019 elections, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leveraged the film industry to shape narratives favorable to their political interests.
The intricate relationship between Bollywood and the Modi government highlights a mutual interest in influencing public opinion, with the film industry serving as a potent tool in shaping perceptions.
