Within the crowded streets and fast-paced day-to-day is a beautiful tapestry of customs and traditions, the city of Mumbai is famously hectic. The Lunchbox (2013) is one of many films that put a spotlight on one of these rich cultural rituals, the lunchbox delivery system. In the film, the delivery system serendipitously connects two workers (Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur) who begin a correspondence. The BAFTA-nominated film is a beautiful tribute to Mumbai and an achievement in Indian cinema.
Based in Mumbai, Bollywood makes approximately 1000 films per year. Very often mixing action, romance, and opulent musical dance numbers, Bollywood is practically a genre in itself. Comprised of both Hindi language and Telugu-language films made in the Southern region sometimes referred to as Tollywood, the industry is diverse and ever-changing. Any fans of Telegu film RRR (winner of the 2023 Oscar for Best Original Song “Naatu Naatu”) can attest to the wide variety of audience-pleasing films coming from all over India.
Celebrating The Storytellers and Cinema of India
Many of us working in the American film industry maintain a myopic view of what we do, limiting a global appreciation of the multitude of work made outside of the domestic market,” says Neal Weisman, head of the NYFA Producing department at our New York campus. “While the streamers (Netflix, Amazon, etc.) have served to broaden the audience’s exposure to international content, many are still shocked at the sheer breadth and quantity of films produced in Bollywood.”
One such film is Fire (1996), starring Shabana Azmi. Azmi visited NYFA in 2022 to talk to Neal and our students regarding her experience working in the industry, citing that she’s a “great believer in training,” to advance natural talents and abilities. The New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), running from May 31 to June 2, is set to highlight and celebrate the cinematic career of Azmi.
With five decades of experience in filmmaking and over 160+ credits to her name, Azmi stands as one of India’s most distinguished actors. She has five National Film Awards for Best Actress, and the prestigious Padma Shri Award was bestowed upon her by the Government in 1998.
At NYIFF, Fire will get an exclusive screening. Renowned for her portrayal of unconventional female roles spanning various genres, Azmi has garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally for her cinematic contributions. She’s just one example of impactful Indian storytellers who have made their mark on cinema.
Many NYFA alums are also making strides in Indian cinema, including NYFA alum Geet Gangwani. Gangwani’s award-winning short film Pav Bhaji was released on India’s biggest OTT platform- Jio Cinema. It’s also on YouTube with currently more than 360k views.
The Best Films Based on or Set in India
For those interested in learning everything the rich world of filmmaking has to offer, explore some of our favorite films based, set, or filmed in India.
Mahanati (2018)
Mahanati (2018) is a biography of the South Indian actress Savitri, iconic in Bollywood during the 50s and 60s. Directed and written by NYFA alum Nag Ashwin, the film stars Keerthy Suresh, Dulquer Salmaan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and Vijay Deverakonda. Ashwin also directed the film Yevade Subramanyam.
Dangal (2016)
In Dangal, a biographical sports drama directed by Nitesh Tiwari, an aspiring wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat teaches his daughters, Babita and Geeta how to become world-class wrestlers. Geeta went on to win Gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, and Babita won Silver. As one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time, the film is credited for its twist on traditional gender roles, and based on a true story.
Fire (1996)
In Fire, two grieving women find love with each other after being abandoned by their husbands. Directed and written by Deepa Mehta, the film was credited for being one of the first Bollywood films to explore the romantic relationship between two women. In addition to NYFA Guest Speaker Shabana Azmi, the film also starred director, actress, and social activist Nandita Das (Dhaad, Parinati).
Photograph (2019)
The 2019 Photograph is a romantic drama starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sanya Malhotra. Directed and written by Ritesh Batra, the movie tells the story of street photographer Rafi who tries to get his grandmother to stop worrying about him to find a wife.
Earth (1998)
The 1998 film Earth, directed and written by visionary filmmaker Deepa Mehta, takes place in 1947. Based and adapted from the novel “Cracking India” by Bapsi Sidhwa, the film follows the lives of characters from various backgrounds and is told through the eyes of a young girl named Lenny.
PK (2014)
The popular comedy sci-fi film PK, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, follows an alien who lands on Earth, and undoubtedly, has more than a few questions. The entertaining film, which explores religion, at one point, was Bollywood’s highest-grossing film, though slowly replaced with newer releases. Starring Aamir Khan and Anushka Sharma, the film won multiple awards at festivals.
Hotel Mumbai (2018)
The award-winning Hotel Mumbai (2018) tells the true story of the Taj Hotel terrorist attack, sharing the real-life experiences that hotel staff and guests went through. Starring Dev Patel, the film was nominated and won several awards at festivals around the world, credited for its gripping cinematography and acting. ShivHans Pictures, founded by NYFA alum and award-winning producer Shivani Rawat, produced the film.
Anupama (1966)
Anupama (1966), an iconic Indian film, following the story of a workaholic who has to raise his daughter Uma after her mother dies in childbirth. He resents his daughter, and can only adore her when he’s under the influence of alcohol. Uma grows up and finds love with a poet, slowly bringing her into her own.
Queen (2013)
Queen, featuring NYFA alum Kangana Ranaut, follows Rani, a young woman from a traditional family who goes on a solo honeymoon after her marriage ends. Directed and written by Vikas Bahl, the film was applauded for its portrayal of Rani and her independence. Ranaut has appeared in a wide range of Bollywood films, including Once Upon a Time in Mumbai (2010), Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019), and Panga (2020).
Dhootha (2023– )
While not a film, the supernatural thriller television show, Dhootha, tells the story of journalist Sagar, who begins to see his future in newspapers. The original Prime series is suspenseful, and a masterclass in how to write horror. The series stars NYFA alum Naga Chaitanya Akkineni (Love Story, Majili), Parvathy Thiruvothu, and Prachi Desai.
3 Idiots (2009)
The comedy 3 Idiots, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, follows three engineering students at an Indian engineering college. Starring Aamir Khan, Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Mona Singh, the award-winning film follows the trio as they look fondly back on their time in college, and express gratitude for their friendship.
Getting Started in Filmmaking at NYFA
NYFA offers a range of programs for aspiring filmmakers and visual storytellers for students all over the world. In our upcoming 1-Week Online Filmmaking Camp for teens, students aged 14-17 learn how to make films, and will write, direct, shoot, and edit their own short film. This workshop is held in Indian Standard Time, making it possible for students to join from their homes. Ready to learn more? Request information from NYFA today!