Unveiling Modi Politics: Bollywood's Role in Promoting Hindu Nationalism

 As India's election looms closer, certain Bollywood films are taking center stage as vehicles to promote Modi politics through the lens of Hindu nationalism. Among them, "Swatantra Veer Savarkar" emerges as a poignant example, its trailer opening with a symbolic nod to Mohandas Gandhi, framed by his iconic glasses. Set against a backdrop of devotional music beloved by Gandhi, the imagery slowly transforms, revealing not the Mahatma himself, but rather an actor embodying Vinayak Damodar Savarkar—a figure synonymous with Hindu nationalism in India.

The timing of "Swatantra Veer Savarkar" is not coincidental. Scheduled for release just weeks before the national elections, the film arrives at a crucial juncture, poised to influence the political discourse for the next five years. Its debut aligns with a slew of other Bollywood productions addressing polarizing issues, some overtly endorsing Modi's political agenda, while others take aim at his critics.

However, the use of cinema as a tool for political promotion is not without controversy. Critics argue that such narratives, steeped in Hindu nationalism, risk exacerbating the already prevalent divisions within Indian society. Raja Sen, a prominent film critic and Bollywood screenwriter, highlights the shift in cinematic representation—from a blend of nationalism and unity to a more pronounced emphasis on Hindu nationalist ideals.

Indeed, the power of Bollywood to shape public opinion cannot be overstated. As audiences flock to theaters to witness the dramatization of historical figures and events, they are unwittingly exposed to narratives that may sway their political leanings. Yet, amidst the spectacle and glamour, questions linger about the long-term implications of using popular cinema as a vehicle for political propaganda.

In a country as diverse as India, where communal tensions simmer beneath the surface, the influence of cinema on public discourse is both profound and precarious. While Bollywood may entertain and inspire, its role in shaping political ideologies warrants closer scrutiny. As "Swatantra Veer Savarkar" and other films of its ilk vie for the spotlight, the lines between art, entertainment, and politics blur, leaving audiences to navigate a landscape where truth and fiction often intertwine.