EXCLUSIVE: Ram Gopal Varma claims Bollywood filmmaker’s struggle to make films like Pushpa 2: ‘They don’t think…’

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The ongoing discussion about the direction of Indian cinema, particularly between Northern and Southern film industries, has been a significant topic for quite some time. Notably, influential figures in the field such as Ram Gopal Varma have recently expressed their thoughts on this matter. In an exclusive interview with TopMob, he provided valuable insights into the contrasts in storytelling methods, audience tastes, and the transforming nature of Indian cinema. He also commented that Bollywood filmmakers face challenges when attempting to produce films similar to Pushpa 2, not because of lack of ability, but due to a difference in thought process.

Ram Gopal Varma straightforwardly expressed, “I’d like to clarify the main distinction that supposedly exists between audiences in the south versus those in the north. Personally, I believe it’s not the people themselves who differ; they share common traits. What sets them apart is their cinematic preferences.

In the heyday of Amitabh Bachchan, specifically during the 70s and 80s, it’s worth noting that the South Indian film industry often adapted Hindi movies. Actors such as Rajinikanth were adapting Bachchan’s films, and performers like Chiranjeevi and NTR followed suit. This means that the art of filmmaking in the South was influenced by Hindi cinema, with directors like Manmohan Desai and others leading the way.

See full interview here: 

Subsequently, he commented, ‘At a specific moment, music firms sprang up, causing a boom in the music sector. These enterprises funded movies to incorporate their tunes, thereby publicizing their music. This transition coincided with an eclipse of action films, around the period when Bachchan went on a five-year break. Consequently, the industry tilted towards musicals like Maine Pyar Kiya and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and Bollywood gradually abandoned its spicy essence.’

As an ardent admirer, I must say that Varma then pointed out something intriguing. Despite the passage of time, the heart of the South Indian film industry remains unchanged. They’ve been consistently churning out the same type of mass entertainers. The characters and stories they create are masterfully designed to stir intense emotions within their audience, which is why the devotion of South Indian fans towards their stars is so profound. It’s the way these stories and characters are constructed that forges this emotional bond.

15-20 years ago, a fresh wave of Bollywood directors appeared, characterized by being more urban, Westernized, and well-versed in foreign films. These directors typically spoke English, resided in areas like Bandra, and had distinctly different perspectives. In contrast, many South Indian directors remain closely tied to their cultural roots.

He commented, “Though they might not be proficient in English, they have a strong connection with the general public. They don’t analyze films or discuss them in highbrow terms like ‘wine and cheese.’ Instead, their thoughts resonate with the feelings of the average moviegoer.

Film director Ram Gopal Varma stated that Bollywood directors face challenges when trying to make movies like Pushpa 2 not because they lack the ability, but due to their unique methods of storytelling. He highlighted that the primary disparity is in filmmakers’ creative instincts rather than audience tastes, as Hindi cinema initially prospered with mass-appealing films similar to those starring Amitabh Bachchan.

On the other hand, South Indian films continued to adhere to this formula, but Bollywood gradually moved away from it. He also noted that mass entertainers typically have a straightforward structure with heroes, villains, and dramatic events, whereas Bollywood has increasingly prioritized crafting compelling narratives over creating striking scenes.

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2025-02-12 06:37