Bollywood’s struggle to meet audience expectations stems from several interconnected issues:
1. Underestimating Audience Intelligence
Filmmakers like Ram Gopal Varma have criticized the industry for treating viewers as lacking discernment, leading to formulaic content that fails to engage discerning audiences .
2. Prioritizing Profit Over Creativity
Director Anurag Kashyap highlighted the industry’s focus on commercial success at the expense of original storytelling, prompting his departure from Bollywood .
3. Reliance on Star Power
There’s a tendency to cast established stars in repetitive roles, resulting in predictable narratives that lack innovation .
4. Political and Cultural Pressures
The rise of political influences has led to self-censorship and the production of content that aligns with specific ideologies, limiting creative freedom .
5. Competition from Regional Cinema and OTT Platforms
Audiences are increasingly turning to regional films and streaming services that offer diverse and compelling content, highlighting Bollywood’s need to evolve .
To regain its footing, Bollywood must embrace originality, respect audience intelligence, and adapt to the changing entertainment landscape.