Anurag Kashyap critiques Bollywood’s formula films, calls for institutional support for independent cinema

In a recent interview, Anurag Kashyap expressed frustration with the growing reliance on predictable story structures, star power, and commercial formulas that dominate mainstream Hindi cinema. He argued that such approaches limit creative risk‑taking and often result in repetitive content that fails to engage discerning audiences. Kashyap highlighted that independent filmmakers frequently struggle to secure financing, distribution, and marketing support, which hampers their ability to bring fresh narratives to the screen.

Kashyap praised the Malayalam film industry for its cooperative production culture, where producers, writers, and directors often share resources and creative input. This model, he said, allows for a diversity of stories while still maintaining financial viability. He called on Indian film institutions, including government bodies and private funds, to develop mechanisms that provide similar support to independent projects across languages and regions. Such backing could include grants, tax incentives, and dedicated distribution channels that prioritize artistic merit.

The call for change matters to Indian readers because cinema remains a major cultural force and a significant source of employment. Strengthening the independent sector could lead to a richer variety of films that reflect the country's social realities, encourage regional talent, and attract international attention. If policies shift in response to Kashyap’s appeal, audiences may soon see a broader range of stories beyond the conventional Bollywood formula.