The Dominion of Plagiarism in Bollywood: A Copied Path to Fame and Revenue

Bollywood, the largest film industry in the world by the number of films produced, often relies on copying successful Western and even regional content. There are several reasons for this trend, primarily centered on financial gains and the absence of innovative storytelling.

Riggers in the Industry: Why Copying Works

The primary driving force behind the copying phenomenon in Bollywood is the ease and assured revenue it provides. Rather than taking the arduous path of creating original content, producers often choose to replicate successful Western and regional films. This strategy is deemed safer as it guarantees at least some returns on their investment, covering the costs of production and distribution.

Time is Money, and Creativity is Not a Priority

Another significant factor contributing to the prevalence of copying in Bollywood is the lack of time for creativity. Producers often opt for pre-existing, ready-made plots and formulas as they are quick and come with a certain level of guaranteed success. This is especially true given the fast-paced nature of the industry, where films are often rushed to meet release deadlines.

Ingredients for a Bollywood Hit

The approach to creating a hit Bollywood movie involves a blend of common ingredients that result in a recipe for success, albeit in a not-so-savory way. Start with a dosage of clichés and tropes, mix in a significant amount of hyperbolic action inspired by the highly successful Tollywood industry, then simmer until the concoction becomes so mind-numbingly dull that audiences will still flock to see it.

Plagiarism in the Blood of Bollywood

Bollywood's lack of originality seems hereditary, with a strong inclination towards copying content from both within and outside India. This trend has been observed at every level, from scripts and storylines to even movie posters and music. For instance, scenes from Hollywood films are often copied and pasted into Bollywood movies, resulting in scenes that, while superficially recognizable, lack the depth and authenticity of the original.

Failure as an Experiment or Stagnation

When aspiring filmmakers or producers do attempt to create a plot from scratch, the results are frequently underwhelming. Many of these original creations end up as box office flops, either because they were too experimental or because they were so far removed from what audiences are accustomed to. Even those who manage to create a somewhat original plot often find themselves fighting against widespread negative reception, as audiences may perceive the attempt at originality to be a step too far in the direction of stupidity.

Conclusion

Bollywood's reliance on copying and plagiarism is a multifaceted issue, driven by a combination of financial security and a lack of motivation to innovate. While this approach may guarantee some level of success, it also risks alienating audiences and stagnating the industry as a whole. The future of Bollywood lies in striking a balance between the familiar and the fresh, creating a new wave of films that resonate with both audiences and critics in India and abroad.