Why this matters now
Cinema is tested for its history/pioneers and its role as soft power and cultural expression — linking art and culture to IR and society.
History and pioneers
Indian cinema began with Dadasaheb Phalke’s Raja Harishchandra (1913), India’s first feature film — earning him the title “Father of Indian Cinema”. The first Indian sound film was Alam Ara (1931). India produces films in many languages — Hindi (Bollywood), Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, Marathi and more.
Parallel cinema and masters
Alongside popular cinema, parallel/art cinema produced world-renowned auteurs — Satyajit Ray (the Apu Trilogy; an honorary Oscar), Ritwik Ghatak, Mrinal Sen, Adoor Gopalakrishnan — exploring social realism. The FTII, NFDC and film festivals (IFFI) nurture cinema.
Significance
Cinema shapes language, fashion, social attitudes and national integration, and projects Indian culture globally (a major soft-power asset). The highest film honour is the Dadasaheb Phalke Award; the National Film Awards recognise excellence.
UPSC angle
Know Dadasaheb Phalke (Raja Harishchandra 1913, Father of Indian Cinema), Alam Ara (1931, first sound film), Satyajit Ray (parallel cinema, honorary Oscar), the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, and cinema as soft power.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Father of Indian Cinema?
Dadasaheb Phalke, who made India’s first feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913).
What was the first Indian sound film?
Alam Ara (1931).
Who was Satyajit Ray?
A globally acclaimed filmmaker of parallel cinema (the Apu Trilogy), who received an honorary Academy Award.
What is the highest film award in India?
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award.