🎬 Cinema Encyclopedia

Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan, Bollywood's "King of Romance"

Bollywood is the nickname for the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai, India. It is the largest film industry in the world by the number of films produced, and one of the most profitable.

History

Bollywood began in the early 20th century, with the first Indian film, Raja Harishchandra, released in 1913. The industry gained international recognition with films like Mother India (1957) and Sholay (1975).

Bollywood Characteristics

• Musicals: Most films include song-and-dance sequences.
• Length: Often 2.5–3 hours, with an intermission.
• Genres: Romance, drama, action, comedy, melodrama.
• International: Bollywood films are popular globally, especially in South Asia, the Middle East, and the diaspora.

Top Bollywood Stars

• Shah Rukh Khan – "King of Bollywood" (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge)
• Amir Khan – Mr. Perfectionist (Lagaan, PK)
• Priyanka Chopra – International star
• Deepika Padukone – Box office queen
• Hrithik Roshan – Dancing star (Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai)

Global Appeal

Bollywood has gained international audiences through diaspora communities and streaming platforms. Films like Slumdog Millionaire (2008) brought global attention to Indian cinema.

Interesting Facts

• Bollywood produces over 1,000 films annually – more than Hollywood.
• The first Bollywood film with sound was Alam Ara (1931).
• Bollywood films are often shot in exotic locations including Switzerland, London, and Dubai.
• Shah Rukh Khan has a global fanbase exceeding 3 billion people.