Is Anupam Kher Right About Regional Films Reviving Indian Narratives?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a recent interview, veteran actor Anupam Kher shed light on the resurgence of regional cinema in India, emphasizing its role in reviving neglected stories. Discover how films from various regional industries are gaining global recognition and reshaping the cinematic landscape in India.
Key Takeaways
- Regional cinema is thriving and evolving into pan-India cinema.
- Films from Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali industries are gaining recognition.
- Anupam Kher emphasizes the importance of authentic Indian storytelling.
- The pandemic has helped audiences discover regional films.
- Events like the Jagran Film Festival celebrate cinematic storytelling.
Mumbai, Nov 14 (NationPress) Renowned actor Anupam Kher has lauded the emergence of regional cinema in India, emphasizing how films from the Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali film industries are reviving the nation’s narratives that have been neglected by Bollywood.
In a captivating interview with IANS, the star of Special 26 articulated that, while regional films flourish and narrate genuine Indian tales, Bollywood has largely turned a blind eye to this rich tradition of storytelling. When queried about the positive developments in regional cinema, Anupam responded that it has transcended its former label of being merely 'regional' to become a true pan-India cinema.
Having worked across nearly all Indian languages apart from a few like Assamese and Gujarati, he noted the increasing organization and aspirations of regional film industries, which seek to connect with global audiences. Kher commended these regional films for showcasing authentic Indian narratives, while he pointed out that Hindi cinema appears to have lost sight of this valuable tradition.
The 70-year-old star remarked, “It’s no longer regional. It has transformed into a pan-India cinema. Moreover, I have acted in almost all Indian languages except for one or two, such as Assamese and Gujarati. These industries are far more structured as they aspire to be recognized worldwide. The pandemic revealed films we previously overlooked, such as those from Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, and Bengali cinema.”
“Now, audiences are eager to enjoy quality films. Kudos to regional cinema for narrating the stories of India. Hindi cinema has indeed forgotten its roots. We must share stories about India and Indianness. That’s why Tanvi the Great is a quintessential Indian narrative, revolving around an Indian girl facing the universal challenge of autism. I believe we can overcome this,” he stated.
Anupam Kher was addressing the audience during the ongoing Jagran Film Festival in Mumbai, which runs until November 16 and aims to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling.
Point of View
I observe the growing prominence of regional cinema. Anupam Kher's insights reflect a critical shift in storytelling, reminding us that authentic narratives often emerge from diverse cultural backgrounds. It's essential that we recognize and celebrate these voices in our media landscape.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Anupam Kher say about regional cinema?
Anupam Kher praised the rise of regional cinema, stating it has evolved into pan-India cinema that tells authentic Indian stories overlooked by Bollywood.
Which regional film industries did Kher mention?
He specifically highlighted the Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali film industries.
What is the significance of films like 'Tanvi the Great'?
'Tanvi the Great' is an example of regional cinema addressing universal themes, such as autism, showcasing the importance of authentic storytelling.
How did COVID-19 impact regional cinema?
Kher noted that the pandemic exposed audiences to regional films they had previously overlooked, highlighting their quality and storytelling.
What is the Jagran Film Festival?
The Jagran Film Festival is an event celebrating the art of storytelling in cinema, currently taking place in Mumbai until November 16.
