When we hear the words foreign policy we tend to think of diplomatic meetings, treaties, trade agreements and international summits. Movies are not often on my mind. But in today’s connected world, a movie can cross borders and affect how people see another country. Indian cinema is thus not merely a source of entertainment. It could also be a quiet but meaningful addition to India’s soft power.
Soft power is about attraction, not coercion, as a way to influence others. Culture, ideas and values can help a country to develop this kind of influence. India’s film industry has a natural edge due to its size and diversity. Bollywood may be the most popular name internationally, but Indian cinema is much more than Hindi films. Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali and other regional industries are churning out stories that are increasingly reaching audiences outside India.
For many people overseas, films could be an introduction to Indian culture. Movies show festivals, food, music, family relationships, traditions and cities. Watching an Indian film might make someone curious about Indian history, tourism, food or music. This may seem a small result, but such curiosity can gradually build up familiarity between people of different countries.
In addition this is where cinema meets foreign policy. Foreign policy is not just governments talking to governments. People’s understanding of other societies also matters. Cultural exchanges, tourism, education & popular culture can create people-to-people linkages. Such ties may not settle diplomatic disputes, but they can foster greater understanding between societies.
The Indian diaspora has also played its part in this process. Indian films, songs and festivals have been taken to different parts of the world by Indians living abroad. Cinema can connect the diaspora with India and can introduce Indian culture to the local audiences as well. In this regard, it can also augment India’s extensive cultural diplomacy.
Through technology, this reach is much easier to do. Before this, Indian films were not easily reachable for the international audience. Today, Indian content is available on streaming platforms in many countries. This has also helped regional cinema reach viewers beyond its traditional base. A story that used to have a hard time crossing its language or region can now find audiences on the other side of the planet.
Indian stories may appeal to a global audience without entirely losing their cultural uniqueness, as demonstrated by the success of films like Baahubali and RRR. The fundamental components of their attraction continued to be their Indian locales, people, and narratives. India’s cultural diversity has the potential to be a source of soft power, which makes it significant.
Additionally, cinema can support India’s broader foreign policy goals. Cultural familiarity can assist foreign audiences comprehend India beyond its politics and economy as the country strives for a larger role in international affairs and increased interaction with the Global South. A well-known movie can generate curiosity, spark discussions, and increase awareness of India, but it cannot establish a diplomatic alliance on its own.
However, the impact of films shouldn’t be overstated. Supporting India’s foreign policy is not a prerequisite for enjoying an Indian movie. People who disagree with a nation’s government can yet value its culture. In the same vein, a single movie cannot adequately capture the experiences of a nation as diverse as India. Soft power has a gradual effect that is hard to quantify.
Additionally, films shouldn’t be used as a vehicle for government messaging. Creativity, independence, and the ability to tell a variety of stories are its main sources of strength. Movies that honour Indian customs can enhance cultural appeal, and movies that candidly examine societal issues can also enhance India’s reputation.
The Way Forward
By encouraging a foreign film festivals, cultural exchanges, co-productions, and improved subtitles and translations, India can increase the contribution of cinema to soft power. Screenings and cultural activities can be used by diplomatic missions to promote interpersonal communication. International promotion of regional film can also aid viewers in understanding the diverse cultures and experiences that comprise India.
However, films shouldn’t be used as a platform for official government messaging. Its independence, diversity, and inventiveness are what give it strength. While films that openly examine societal problems can enhance India’s credibility, films that honour Indian customs can increase cultural appeal.
As a student, I view Indian cinema as a bridge between cultures rather than a substitute for diplomacy. A movie cannot resolve a global dispute or negotiate a treaty.However, it may attract curiosity, initiate a conversation, and familiarise someone who has never been to India. The stories produced in India have the potential to subtly influence how the world perceives India.
