With globalization, the world is becoming a small place and the clash between cultures is fast becoming common place. This phenomenon is being picked up in mainstream media. Indian movies like Swades show how this chasm can be bridged and that sometimes one needs to jolt people out of the negative ruts their lives have fallen into and empower them by striving towards modernity.
Swades (Homeland, the subtitle of the film is "We, the People") is a Hindi movie about a NRI (Non-Resident Indian, or as some people call them Not Really Indian), returning to India in search of his neglected nanny in an obscure Indian village. His short stay is extended when he gets embroiled in the local problems of shortage of electricity, education and the deeply entrenched caste system, besides developing a romantic interest in the local school teacher, a forward-thinking, progressive individual, somewhat socialist in outlook. Despite concerns about the social and economic chasms that exist in modern India, the two find common ground in their desire for rural development. Someone once said “Think globally, act locally”. This point is strongly emphasized in the film. The film also demonstrates the reach of Indians into the global economy by placing the lead character in the role of an important NASA project manager,
While the movie suffers from amateurish camera angles, which is surprising considering the director’s previous effort, Lagaan, received an Oscar nomination, the story is refreshing, humorous and socially relevant. Shah Rukh Khan – the leading Indian actor, who has received innumerable accolades for his work – weaves his usual boyish charm through the three and a half hour long movie (don’t let the length put you off as the movie is fast paced). The characterization and acting of supporting characters is impressive, and understandable, given their theatrical background.
The film provides a peek into the workings of the robust Indian democracy at the grass root levels in the form of the Panchayati Raj model, which are local council meetings wherein local matters are either resolved internally by village elders, and if needed escalated with the government officials by them. This model has meant significant empowerment of the common man. Unfortunately, it is also prone to abuse by powerful entrenched interests, who can be overthrown nevertheless. The movie is quick to point out that positive changes can only be made by working within the confines of the prevailing democratic system.
"A sinister cabal of superior writers."
Article comments
1 - SFC SKI
Thanks for the tip, I am very interested in India, so this movie will be on my list to see.
2 - swingingpuss
India is a vibrant country and there is much to discover there.
Share your thoughts when you have seen the movie and thanks for reading:-)
3 - Angela Chen Shui
Thanks for this, swingingpuss.
Bollywood's increasing cross-over into the mainstream western film industry is fascinating.
Indian excellence in the fields of, eg medicine and IT, augers well for her future as she slowly begins to take on a more expanded role in world leadership.
Years ago between 1986-1988, I worked with several Indians to help them set up three garment manufacting 807/CMT plants in two of our Free Zones here.
I was extremely impressed with their focus, dedication, discipline, ambition and ability to fluidly learn the intricacies of how things were done in the different parts of the world in which they conducted business.
My husband also studied with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi over a couple decades ago. That, coupled with my years long love of yoga and meditation, in addition to the benefits gained through doing the TM sidha program, have left a strong, indelible eastern influence in our lives and home.
Hmmmm.... let me go light some sandalwood incense and candles. Pity we didn't have dahl and roti this evening! ;-)
Blessings.
4 - Angela Chen Shui
Rather, namaste! ;-)
5 - swingingpuss
Now that India has been freed from restrictive governmental semi-socialistic policies, and got over it's colonial hangover, it's growth is imminent. Yet, in keeping with it's non-imperialistic, non-aggressive history, the world should and hopefully does welcome Indians into the global community.
Indians have always believed in sharing the 'roti', where there is room for two, there is room for three, or perhaps we need to roll a larger roti together:)
It's interesting to hear of your experiences with yoga and yogis. I'm sure we could talk about this theme at length.
6 - Angela Chen Shui
Undoubtedly! ;-) Look forward to it.
7 - Aaman
The trailer link at the end is the best kind of teaser - short and visually rich, unlike the overlong summaries one sees so often.
8 - Eric Olsen
thanks SP, you rock - India is the new Israel
9 - Eric Olsen
I added a little space around your pics
10 - swingingpuss
Thanks Eric.The post does look a lot better.
S.P
11 - Angela Chen Shui
Amazing what that little white space does ... btw, those pics are beautiful, SP!