Mumbai’s iconic filmmaker Subhash Ghai, known for blending glamour, drama, and powerful storytelling, has shared his insights on the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. In an exclusive conversation, the veteran director discussed how filmmaking intersects with education, the rise of remake songs, and the dominance of action movies at the box office.
Ghai, with over five decades in cinema and 25 years in education, reflected on his journey. ‘Fifty-five years ago, I was a student at FTII Pune, immersing myself in acting and world cinema,’ he recalled. From there, he transitioned into acting, writing, directing, and producing, helming 18-19 films, 14-15 of which were hits.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to take his company public via IPO, venture into distribution and exhibition, and ultimately establish Whistling Woods International, a premier film school. ‘Many aspiring talents from small towns get lost in Mumbai without guidance on studios, contacts, or showcasing talent,’ Ghai explained. ‘Whistling Woods provides 2-3 years of expert training and industry connections.’
Addressing the trend of recreating classic songs and films, Ghai emphasized that creativity thrives in its era. From Mozart to Indian legends like Dadasaheb Phalke, Guru Dutt, and Prakash Mehra, new creators emerge every 30 years. ‘Cinema mirrors society,’ he said. ‘As people, times, and issues change, so do narratives, expressions, and drama styles.’
The digital age has ushered in OTT platforms, web series, and TV, allowing storytellers to explore diverse tales. On action films’ current reign, Ghai noted cyclical trends: family dramas in the 1960s, Amitabh Bachchan’s angry young man era in the 1970s, romantic tales in the 1990s. ‘Audiences tire of one style and crave novelty, hence this action wave,’ he observed.
Ghai’s wisdom underscores cinema’s adaptability, urging creators to innovate while honoring timeless storytelling principles. As Bollywood navigates these changes, his perspective offers a roadmap for the future.