The Role of Urdu Words in Bollywood: Cultural Identity and Language Evolution

Bollywood, the cultural powerhouse of India, has long been known for its cinematic brilliance and linguistic diversity. At the heart of this diversity lies the application of Urdu words in films. This article explores the reasons behind the increased use of Urdu words in Bollywood movies and the impact they have on cultural identity and language.

Why Are More Urdu Words Being Used in Bollywood?

One of the most probable reasons for the increased use of Urdu words in Bollywood is linguistic simplicity. Urdu, as a language, lacks a variety of consonant clusters, which makes it easier for Indians to pronounce. This is contrasted against Hindi, which has a greater diversity of consonant clusters, making some words challenging to pronounce. For example, the Urdu word zaroori (necessary) has fewer consonants than its Hindi equivalent avashya.

However, it's important to note that there are exceptions. The word mukhtalif (different in Urdu) is similar to the Sanskrit word alag alag, which emphasizes the cultural and linguistic diversity within the region.

Language and Cultural Identity

The mix of Urdu and Hindi in Bollywood language can be seen as a reflection of the cultural identity of the subcontinent. While both languages share lexical similarities, the use of Urdu words brings a sense of elegance and depth to the language. This is often seen in poetry and the more formal or literary aspects of films, where the word svatantrata (independence) is used in Hindi, as opposed to aazadi (freedom) in Urdu, which conveys a feeling of royal charm and historical significance.

Many iconic Bollywood movies and songs were rich in Urdu words, contributing to their beauty and charm. Films like Aamir Khan's 'My Name Is Khan' were not only popular in India but also in other parts of the world due to their use of Urdu language and the relatable cultural elements they showcased. The use of Urdu in movies like Fanaa and Veer Zara was a testament to this cultural identity and linguistic richness.

The Impact of Political Influences

However, the political climate has significantly impacted the usage of Urdu in Bollywood. After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came into power, there was a gradual saffronisation of Bollywood. This political influence led to a decrease in movies like My Name Is Khan and an increase in movies glorifying Hindu empires and their battles against Muslim invaders. Such a shift not only altered the cultural landscape of Bollywood but also affected the linguistic composition of films.

The decrease in Urdu words and an increase in Sanskrit-based words (forming what is now known as "Sanskrutified Hindi") reflect this shift. This change in language usage has not only affected the cultural narrative of Bollywood but also its international appeal. Countries like Iran and Egypt, which were once huge fans of Bollywood, now have reduced interest in newer films, with only a few old classics remaining popular. The international community, particularly in the Middle East, is now more likely to watch only a select few Urdu-honoring films, often starring actors of Muslim origin.

The influence of A BJP-aligned actors and producers in the film industry has contributed to this shift. Even some prominent actors, such as Akshay Kumar and Kangana Ranaut, have been vocal about their support for this political narrative, further influencing the film industry's tone and content.

In conclusion, the increased use of Urdu words in Bollywood not only reflects the linguistic and cultural identity of the subcontinent but also speaks to the broader political and cultural dynamics at play. While the linguistic mix enriches the language and contributes to the beauty of the films, the political impact of saffronisation has significantly altered the cultural and linguistic landscape of Bollywood.