Entertainment / Bollywood & Beyond: Must-Watch Films for Vibrant Insight Into Muslim Cultures

Bollywood & Beyond: Must-Watch Films for Vibrant Insight Into Muslim Cultures

Entertainment May 24, 2024

by Mehak Kapoor | Features Editor - Entertainment

The portrayal of Muslim culture in Bollywood films is diverse, ranging from positive portrayals highlighting themes of love, peace, and tolerance to negative representations and neutral portrayals. Alongside its entertainment focus, Bollywood intermittently explores Islamic spirituality and Sufi poetry themes. Many Bollywood songs draw inspiration from Sufi poetry and music. These songs often convey themes of divine love, spiritual longing, and the quest for enlightenment. Examples include Kun Faya Kun from the movie Rockstar, Bhar Do Jholi Meri from Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and Arziyan from Delhi-6. These songs resonate deeply with audiences, presenting a spiritual experience through their soulful melodies and profound lyrics.

Certain Bollywood films explore themes related to Sufism, such as the search for inner peace, the importance of love and compassion, and the transcendence of worldly desires. Films like Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani incorporate Sufi philosophy and poetry elements to evoke a sense of spiritual awakening and self-discovery among the characters.

These films offer glimpses into the joyous celebrations, values, and traditions within Islamic culture, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the faith. Through poetry, music, and cinematic imagery, Bollywood pays homage to the enduring legacy of Islam and Sufism, offering audiences glimpses into the profound wisdom and beauty of these traditions.

My Name Is Khan, a Bollywood movie directed by Karan Johar, is renowned for its portrayal of the Muslim community and the exploration of themes such as identity, prejudice, and resilience. The film follows the life of Rizwan Khan, a Muslim man with Asperger’s syndrome, who embarks on a journey across America to convey a message of peace and tolerance. The film highlights the community’s diversity and strength while challenging stereotypes and promoting understanding through Rizwan’s journey. Every time I’ve watched this movie, it has undoubtedly moved me to tears. It serves as a powerful illustration of the Muslim community emphasizing the universal values of peace and tolerance that it upholds. Humanizing its characters and addressing complex social issues, the film contributes to a more nuanced understanding of Islam and its followers.

Unlock the Spirit of Ramadan & Eid: Must-Watch Movies for Vibrant Insight into Islam! — **Bollywood & Beyond: Must-Watch Films for Vibrant Insight Into Muslim Cultures / My Name Is Khan (2010)**

Bajrangi Bhaijaan, though not word-for-word about Islam, this film features a Muslim character, Chand Nawab, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who assists the protagonist, a devout Hindu played by Salman Khan, in reuniting a lost Pakistani girl (Munni), Harshaali Malhotra with her family in Pakistan. The film showcases the bond of humanity beyond religious boundaries. Overall, Bajrangi Bhaijaan showcases Islam in a positive light, highlighting the universal values of compassion, empathy, and humanity that transcend religious differences. According to my knowledge, it is a gratifying narrative and memorable characters the film promotes a message of unity and mutual respect, fostering greater understanding and acceptance of diverse cultures and faiths.

Khuda Gawah is an epic Bollywood film directed by Mukul S. Anand, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Sridevi in lead roles. The film combines elements of Islamic culture and tradition into its narrative, specifically through its portrayal of Afghan society and the character of Baadshah Khan, who is a pious Muslim. The movie is known for its grand scale, magnificent production values, and memorable music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. The film features iconic songs like Tu Na Ja Mere Badshah and Main Aankhen Khola. It was well-received by audiences and remains a beloved classic in Bollywood cinema.

Pakeezah is a classic Indian film released in 1972, directed by Kamal Amrohi. It’s a romantic drama set in the backdrop of the Indian Muslim culture. The film stars Meena Kumari, Raj Kumar, and Ashok Kumar in lead roles. The ghazals in the movie were penned by legendary poets like Kaifi Azmi, Majrooh Sultanpuri, Kaif Bhopali, and Kamal Amrohi and were exceptionally well-crafted. Pakeezah‘s story revolves around a mistress named Sahibjaan, played by Meena Kumari, who faces societal judgment and stumbles for acceptance and love. This movie remains a timeless classic in Indian cinema and persists to be treasured by audiences for its rich storytelling and memorable music. Likewise, it’s my grandma’s favourite movie!

Anarkali, the film features Bina Rai in the role of the infamous courtesan. Her delivery of dialogue was impeccable, portraying her character with grace. However, the film’s winning moments lie in its songs, such as Mujhse Mat Pooch Mere, Yeh Zindagi Uss Hi Ki Hai, and Dua Kar Gham-E-Dil. These songs, along with the film’s ghazals and Urdu language, received high praise. In various adaptations of the story, Anarkali portrays the cultural and societal norms of the Mughal court, including its Islamic influences in architecture, clothing, and courtly etiquette. It incorporated elements of Urdu poetry and music, reflecting the artistic and literary traditions of the time, which were deeply intertwined with Islamic culture.

Umrao Jaan is a Bollywood movie helmed by Muzaffar Ali, adapted from Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s Urdu novel Umrao Jaan Ada. Rekha, an iconic Hindi film actress takes on the lead role of Umrao Jaan, a courtesan residing in 19th-century Lucknow. The narrative traces Umrao Jaan’s evolution from Amiran, a young girl abducted and thrust into the courtesan life, to her rise as a revered poet and dancer. The film is known for its exquisite portrayal of the Nawabi culture, captivating cinematography, and soulful music composed by Khayyam. The film’s ghazals and songs, sung by Asha Bhosle and Talat Aziz, have become timeless classics, including Dil Cheez Kya Hai, In Aankhon Ki Masti, and Justuju Jiski Thi. Overall, a cinematic masterpiece that celebrates the artistry of Urdu culture and the resilience of the human spirit.

Malcolm X, I know this is not a South Asian movie, however, this movie is one of my favourites. A biographical film directed by Spike Lee, released in 1992. The movie chronicles the life and transformation of Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and an advocate for black empowerment. This movie offers insight into Muslim life and the experiences of African Americans in America, as well as the intersection of the Nation of Islam with the Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm X is celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of its complex subject, its historical accuracy, and its exploration of themes such as identity, faith, and social change.

Fiza, a Bollywood film released in 2000, directed by Khalid Mohammed. It stars Karisma Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, and Jaya Bachchan in lead roles. The film provides insight into Islam through its exploration of the impact of extremism and terrorism on Muslim families in India. The character, Fiza, is a young Muslim woman, who searches for her brother Amaan, who becomes involved in terrorist activities during the 1993 Bombay riots. Through Fiza’s journey, the movie sheds light on the complexities of identity, faith, and the struggle against radicalization within the Muslim community. I thoroughly enjoyed this film, from its alluring songs to its thoughtful examination of sensitive social and political matters. It poignantly reflects on the intricacies of living in a diverse society and the struggles individuals endure during turbulent times.

The Kite Runner, the film based on a novel of the same title, written by Khaled Hosseini. The film was released in 2007, and talks about Afghani immigrant Amir who was summoned from his California home to Pakistan by his father’s friend, Rahim Khan. His childhood was wealthy, however, Amir was friends with the servant’s son Hassan. When Hassan was violently assaulted by a local bully. His friend, Amir was too scared to save him and has been guilty ever since. This film teaches you about the sweet innocent relationship we share, irrespective of colour, status, race, or religion.

The Indian films showcase the rich Muslim culture, focusing on the lifestyles of Nawabs and the elite. Their portrayal of prosperous lives, distinct quirks, and artistic contributions underscores their significant role in the Indian subcontinent’s culture. For poetry enthusiasts, the Urdu language featured in ghazals and dialogues adds an extra layer of enjoyment. If you’re fascinated by these themes, don’t hesitate to indulge in these extraordinary pieces of Indian and cinema.

Mehak Kapoor | Features Editor - Entertainment

Author

Mehak Kapoor (@makeba_93) is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist with over a decade of experience in anchoring and content creation for TV and digital platforms. Passionate about storytelling and factual reporting, she enjoys engaging with diverse audiences. Outside of work, she finds solace i...

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Bollywood & Beyond: Must-Watch Films for Vibrant Insight Into Muslim Cultures

by Mehak Kapoor | Features Editor - Entertainment

Mehak Kapoor | Features Editor - Entertainment

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