Baghban was a soul-stirrer: Hema Malini

Actor-turned-politician Hema Malini was in the capital recently to attend the 110th annual session of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where she spoke about the evolution of cinema over the years and how it has helped in developing the socio-economic growth of our country.

She said, “When the father of Indian cinema Dadasaheb Phalke released Raja Harishchandra, no one in their wildest dreams thought that Indian cinema will become the largest film industry in the world. At the same time, Bollywood has showcased India’s rich tradition, culture and way of life through various narratives in the last 100 years. In the 1950s and 60s, filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt gave vision to the industry with their strong narratives and gripping storylines.”

According to Hema, during her time as leading lady in the 70s, the industry underwent a drastic change as masala films were the call of the day. “I was fortunate to be a part of action films and also movies that empowered women. Films like Lal Patthar, Sita aur Geeta and Andaz helped in changing the outlook of women in society with their strong female-oriented storylines,” she pointed out.

Talking about the role of music, the actress said, “Music in the early days was poetry in motion. It represented the innermost thoughts of the director supported with a melodious composition. Even today, people go back to old movies and songs to find meaning in contemporary cinema. One must not forget that cinema thrived because of the contributions of these eminent filmmakers.”

In recent times, the industry has undergone tremendous changes again, because of new-age filmmakers, stated Hema. “These filmmakers are redefining the way movies are made with the help of the latest techniques and cinematography. Today, the industry has global reach and new directors play an important role in globalising the sector even further, leading to financial growth. It is one of the fastest growing sectors in the country and the value of the entertainment industry is currently estimated at `353 billion with an expected growth rate (compound rate) of 19 per cent in the next five years!” she revealed.

Citing an example from her last movie Baghban, the actress-turned-politician pointed out that content is the key and it can help in bringing change in society at a larger level too. “Baghban was a soul-stirrer across age groups and left a lasting impact among the audience. Even after 10 years, people remember it because of the content. Digitisation and modernisation has no meaning if it does not touch our lives,” she affirmed and concluded by talking about her upcoming film with Ramesh Sippy titled Shimla Mirchi, saying, “I play a modern mother in this film and portray a beautiful relationship shared between a mother and daughter.”