Pankaj Kapur on the Resurgence of Meaningful Storytelling in Hindi Cinema

Veteran actor Pankaj Kapur reflects on the evolving landscape of Hindi cinema, emphasizing the resurgence of meaningful storytelling. In an era dominated by big-budget spectacles and franchise-driven narratives, Kapoor believes that substance is reclaiming its space.

He notes, “The biggest change is that stories have improved significantly. Content has come back strongly into cinema,” highlighting a shift from the focus on spectacle to the essence of storytelling.

Kapur recalls a time, particularly in the late '80s and '90s, when the industry differed greatly. Today, even mainstream cinema is striving to convey meaningful messages through its narratives. However, he acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by smaller, content-driven films, which often struggle for theatrical releases.

“As a performer, or a filmmaker, one should always be ready to showcase their work, irrespective of the medium,” he says, recognizing the importance of reaching audiences through various platforms, including OTT and television.

Reflecting on his own journey, he shares that many of his films didn't reach audiences in theaters but gained recognition later through television. “What’s vital is that the work reaches people,” he emphasizes.

For Kapoor, the journey of a story doesn't end with its release format. “If the work is good, it will find its audience eventually. The primary goal should be to reach viewers, regardless of the medium,” he explains.

He traces the creative shift in cinema back to the early 2000s when filmmakers began balancing artistic intent with commercial viability. This balance allowed for films that appealed to both the audience's intelligence and their entertainment needs.

Kapur remains wary of the myth that formula-driven films guarantee success. “A well-made film will always find its audience, regardless of trends,” he states, noting that while many films are produced yearly, only a select few achieve significant success.

He concludes by celebrating the current environment for filmmakers, where experimentation is encouraged, and diverse stories can flourish. “There is space for different narratives, and that is a positive sign for the industry,” he says.