Bollywood in the Blitz: The Intersection of War and Cinema

What was the impact of World War II on India's film industry, and how did nationalistic sentiments fueled a new wave of filmmaking? Discover the captivating stories of bravery, resistance, and resilience told through the lens of Indian cinema during a time of political and social upheaval.

Approximately 70 to 85 million people died in World War II, making it the worst conflict in recorded human history. The war led to widespread suffering, including genocides, starvation, massacres, and disease, which caused the deaths of tens of millions of people; Source: Wikipedia

In 1939, the world was on the brink of war and in India, the film industry was thriving, producing a steady stream of glamorous musicals and melodramas. However, as World War II broke out, the Indian film industry was forced to confront the harsh realities of conflict and adapt to the changing times.

During World War II, the film industry in India was greatly affected by the global conflict and the resulting social and political changes that occurred within the country. The war had a profound impact on the entire world, and India was no exception. As a colony of the British Empire, India was directly involved in the war, and the conflict had a significant impact on the people and the country as a whole.

Many filmmakers and actors in India were inspired by the nationalistic sentiments and anti-colonial movements that arose during this time, and as a result, the themes of their films often reflected these issues. For example, some films focused on themes of independence, freedom, and resistance to foreign oppression, and they were intended to rally the Indian people and strengthen their resolve to fight for their country. These films were often made with the intention of promoting national pride and unity, and they played a significant role in shaping the country's culture and identity.

In addition to the themes of the films, the war also had a significant impact on the production of films in India. Due to the war, there were shortages of raw film stock and other production materials, which made it difficult for filmmakers to complete their projects. The war also disrupted the distribution and exhibition of films, as many theatres were closed or converted for other uses. The loss of overseas markets and the decrease in domestic box office revenues due to the war had a significant effect on the financial success of filmmakers and the industry as a whole. Many filmmakers struggled to get their films made and released due to these financial challenges, and some were forced to shut down their production companies or look for other sources of income.

Despite the challenges, the film industry in India continued to grow and evolve during and after World War II. Indian cinema rose to the occasion and used its platform to fight against fascism. Filmmakers produced patriotic films that rallied support for the Allied cause and promoted anti-fascist messages.

One example of a film that supported the Allied cause was Dr. Kotnis Ki Amar Kahani ("The Immortal Tale of Dr. Kotni") directed by V Shantaram in 1946. The film portrays the medical mission as India's "duty to help our neighbour" and emphasises the importance of unity in resistance against the war, with clear parallels to the nationalist movement against British rule. Other films like Kismet (1943), Pukar (1939), Shaheed (1948), and Jwar Bhata (1944) are just a few examples of the films that were made in India during World War II that dealt with themes of resistance against fascism.

However, the Indian film industry struggled with how to promote India's role in the conflict without also addressing the growing independence movement in the country. The British government's Film Advisory Board in India was tasked with making propaganda films, but the project faced challenges. A film called Face of India was commissioned in 1942 to highlight both the Allies' war effort and India's role in it, but officials at the Ministry of Information, the Films Division, and the India Office were unable to reach a consensus on how to do so without legitimising India's right to self-rule. The film was eventually shelved.

As the war drew to a close and the world began to rebuild, Indian cinema emerged stronger than ever. Its ability to adapt and continue producing films during such a tumultuous time, while also using its platform to fight against fascism, was a testament to its resilience. The films made during this time continued to address important social and political issues, and they played a significant role in shaping the country's culture and identity.

The war may have presented many difficulties, but it also provided an opportunity for filmmakers and actors to explore new themes and ideas, and to create works that would have a lasting impact on the world. The films made during this time continue to be celebrated and remembered, and they stand as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the people of India.

A screengrab from the film Shaheed (1948) directed by Ramesh Saigal; Source: IMDB