RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Bollywood Day, which is celebrated every September 24, is a moment to learn more about Indian culture and the entertainment industry. One of the most inherent things about Bollywood films is the dance scenes.
Bollywood is an Indian film industry based in Mumbai and is known for its colorful musicals and romantic stories. The name Bollywood is a combination of Bombay (the old name for Mumbai) and Hollywood, the center of the United States film industry.
Bollywood’s journey began at the beginning of the 20th century, when talkies began to appear.
According to the Australian National University, the film ‘Alam Ara’ in 1931 became India’s first talkie film and opened the musical era.
The 1950s and 1960s were an important period in the history of Bollywood cinema. This period is known as the golden era with films like Mother India, Pyaasa, and Shree 420.
The films of that era combined dramatic stories with musical performances which later became a trademark. Since then, music and dance have developed into an inherent element of Bollywood films.
Bollywood dance was formed through a mixture of various Indian dance styles and Western influences. According to the Pranavam School of Dance, elements of Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, folk dance and contemporary styles influenced its development.
This combination means that Bollywood choreography can change according to the needs of the story, music, characters and current developments. The classical style provides more structured movements, while the modern elements make the choreography feel more dynamic.
Bollywood dance is also a forum for India’s cultural diversity through various regional dances. For example, Bhangra dance which is often used in celebrations and Garba which is performed in a festival atmosphere.
One of the reasons dance is important in the Bollywood industry is its ability to convey emotions and stories without relying on dialogue. Bollywood dances generally feature fun choreography, are full of energy, and involve many dancers.
Music also forms the identity of a film and accompanies dance. Bollywood songs can even be produced before a film is made and used to help fund filmmaking.
The popularity of these music and dance patterns has helped make Bollywood known in various countries. Bollywood music gave birth to dance trends and inspired musicians and filmmakers in various parts of the world.
The development of Bollywood then entered a new era when technology and globalization changed the way films were produced. Entering the streaming era, it is increasingly easier for Bollywood to reach international audiences while opening up space for more diverse stories.
In fact, several Bollywood films have won Oscar awards in various categories. Most recently, at the 2023 Oscars, ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ won the Best Documentary Short Film category. (Shafa)
