As the first quarter of the 21st century nears its end, Bollywood star Malaika Arora looks back on a period marked by change, growth, and continuous reinvention. She notes that Bollywood has undergone a significant transformation, reshaping storytelling, technology, and audience engagement.
Reflecting on the evolution of Bollywood in terms of storytelling, technology, and audience engagement over the past 25 years, Malaika expresses that the industry has evolved beautifully. She highlights the shift from formulaic and star-driven narratives of the late 90s to today’s more daring, intricate, and authentic storytelling.
Malaika acknowledges the advancements in technology within Bollywood, from digital filmmaking to the use of VFX and the emergence of OTT platforms. She also recognizes the changing dynamics of the audience, describing them as more discerning, engaged, and receptive to diverse narratives.
Malaika shares her surprise at the gradual mainstream acceptance of content-driven cinema and unconventional stories in the present era. She reflects on her personal journey of growth, transitioning from glamour and dance to fitness, entrepreneurship, and now, being a published author.
Highlighting significant films and performances that have shaped contemporary Hindi cinema, Malaika mentions titles like Lagaan, Dil Chahta Hai, Queen, Gully Boy, and Andhadhun as milestones. She also credits Shah Rukh Khan’s impactful body of work for influencing Bollywood’s emotional and cultural landscape across different generations.
Malaika praises the iconic journeys of actors like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, and Kriti Sanon, emphasizing their portrayals of strong and complex female characters in films such as Jab We Met, Omkara, Gangubai, and Mimi. She believes that these films, performances, and the rise of female-led narratives on streaming platforms have set the stage for the future of Hindi cinema.
