QUE. Evaluate the changing treatment of subject matter in Gujarati cinema and its impact on society.

The beginning of Gujarati cinema can be traced to the period of 1919–20 with silent films such as Krishna–Sudama and Bilvamangal. However, the real beginning is considered to be the first Gujarati talkie, Narsinh Mehta, released in 1932. Since then, the subject matter of Gujarati films has undergone continuous changes.

• Changes in the subject matter of Gujarati films and their impact on society:

• In the initial years, a large number of Gujarati films were based on mythological themes and legends.

• Films were also made on Gujarat’s popular saints and various religious themes. These included silent films such as Bilvamangal and Krishna–Sudama, and talkies such as Narsinh Mehta, Sati Savitri, Ganga Sati, etc.

• Along with entertainment, such films became a medium for spreading religious sentiments, devotion, and moral values in society. During this period, political message-oriented films such as Bhakta Vidur (1921) were also made, which indirectly referred to the Indian freedom movement.

• During the early phase, films addressing social issues were also produced. These included Gunasundari, which portrayed the story of a woman who was rejected by her husband.

• In the post-Independence period, up to the 1960s, a large number of films were produced, most of which were centered on saints, virtuous women (satis), and dacoits.

• During this period, films were also adapted from literary works such as novels and short stories. Notable films included Vevishal (1949), Liludi Dharati (1968), Malela Jeev, Jogidas Khuman, Kanku (1969), etc.

• After 1970, government support policies led to a significant increase in film production. During this period too, many films were based on gods and goddesses, dacoits, and rural culture. Most films depicted village life and rural backgrounds, including Mota Gharni Vahu and Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya.

• In the early 2000s, film production declined. However, in 2005, the government reintroduced promotional policies, which, along with the growing popularity of Gujarati films among rural audiences, especially in North Gujarat, led to a revival in film production. The rapid urbanization of Gujarat and India also influenced Gujarati cinema, and recent Gujarati films have successfully attracted urban audiences.

• Many contemporary Gujarati films are based on urban life and culture. Successful films in this category include Kevi Rite Jaish, Chaal Jeevi Laiye, Bey Yaar, Chello Divas, and Gujjubhai The Great.

• In brief, the subject matter of Gujarati cinema has evolved from mythological and religious themes in its early years to historical and social themes during the 1940s–50s, saints and satis in the 1970s, and urban lifestyles and culture after 2005.

• Today, Gujarati cinema also explores subjects that were once considered taboo in society. Meghdhanushya (2013) is the first Gujarati film based on homosexuality.

Thus, the human and social themes reflected in Gujarati films portray social life, moral values, religion, and social issues, thereby influencing society while also reflecting its changing realities.