Bollywood’s Capabilities and Future of Epic Films: Lessons from Mughal-e-Azam

Bollywood has long been praised for its grand and detailed period films, such as Mughal-e-Azam, which is still considered a masterpiece even by today's standards. Despite some misconceptions, it's clear that Bollywood has the talent and resources to produce films on the scale of movies like Baahubali. This article explores why Bollywood can create epic films like Mughal-e-Azam and discusses the challenges in achieving such grand narratives today.

The Myth: Can't Make Films Like Baahubali

There's a prevailing notion that Bollywood cannot produce films with the same awe-inspiring scope and detail as Baahubali. However, this is far from the truth. Mughal-e-Azam, a 1960 film, stands as a testament to the industry's ability to create grand epics. The movie's attention to detail, stunning visuals, and well-crafted narrative still resonate with audiences today, proving that Bollywood had the expertise and vision to undertake such ambitious projects decades ago.

Bollywood's Past and Potential

The capability of Bollywood to produce films like Baahubali lies in its rich history and vast resources. Films such as Asoka and Jodha Akbar have already demonstrated the industry's ability to create large-scale period pieces. These films, despite being made in the 1990s and 2000s, continue to influence modern cinema and serve as inspiration for contemporary filmmakers.

It would be wrong to say Bollywood can't make movies like Baahubali. It has the resources, talent, and history to produce such films. It's more about market demand and the willingness of key players to take risks.

With the success of Baahubali and its sequels, there is a growing market for such epic films. Producers and directors are now more willing to take the risk of investing in high-budget, large-scale productions. Films like Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, and Tanhaji are a promising start. More upcoming films, such as Draupadi and Adipurush, and Karna starring Shahid Kapoor, are expected to follow suit.

Challenges for Future Epic Films

While Bollywood has the potential to produce grand-scale films, several challenges stand in the way. One significant hurdle is the requirement for a committed director, producer, and, most importantly, a mass appeal actor. Khan family actors, such as Salman Khan, are known for their commitment to their craft. However, Salman Khan, despite having the talent, is more likely to remake South Indian films due to the financial returns available from a large star cast. Other renowned actors like Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are in their 50s, and the demand for their services means they may not have the time or inclination to invest in extensive period films.

Hrithik Roshan, while capable, might take the plunge, but an ensemble cast is needed. Additionally, the ego of actors and the prevalent pressure to churn out commercial films further complicate the process.

The lack of a mature audience in Bollywood that values quality content over mere entertainment also poses a barrier. This is exemplified by the enduring popularity of shallow and formulaic films that rely on star power rather than substantial narrative depth. Compare this with the sophistication of Western audiences, who have films like Friends, GOT (Game of Thrones), and Dexter to enjoy, indicating their readiness to appreciate more nuanced storytelling.

A Promising Future

Despite these obstacles, the future looks promising for epic films in Bollywood. With the successful launch of Baahubali, there is now a clear indication that there is sufficient market demand for such films. The industry's history of creating well-received, large-scale productions proves that it can produce these movies if the right conditions are met. As visionary filmmakers and producers step up to create ambitious narratives, we can anticipate more films of the caliber of Mughal-e-Azam and Baahubali in the near future.

Bollywood's journey from Mughal-e-Azam to Baahubali demonstrates the industry's unwavering potential to make epic films that resonate with audiences on a global scale. While challenges remain, the success of epic films in Bollywood is not just possible, but increasingly probable.