The year that it was

Of the 80 Bollywood films released in 1975, only some 15 or 30 reflected the hopes, fears and complexities of the time the society was grappling with. Yet it is considered a landmark year, an evocative, and richly layered transformative year in cinema. But can one calendar year mirror the socio-political and emotional pulse of a changing India? Did ‘angry young man’ reflect the post-emergency disillusionment of the time? Was the genre fusion story telling taken center-stage in telling the uncomfortable truths?

The year was undoubtedly rich in story ideas, courageous scripts and unforgettable artistry. A powerful lineup of films — Sholay, Deewaar, Chupke Chupke, Julie, Aandhi, Nishant — justified the year as a landmark in storytelling, genre fusion, and marketing. The year also brought a remarkable cinematic spectrum by achieving a beautiful balance between commercial hits and artistic milestones. What sets this book apart is its attention to the lesser-discussed but equally vital parallel cinema films - like Nishant, Aandhi, and Mausam.  In his scholarly insights, the author brings the industry's willingness to grapple with uncomfortable truths—be it political disillusionment, patriarchal oppression, or emotional vulnerability. 

In all, 1975: The Year That Transformed Bollywood is an insightful read for film lovers, historians, and anyone curious about the intersection of art, society, and cultural evolution. This period marked a dark chapter in country’s democratic history. The Emergency had far-reaching impacts on all aspects of the society, but its notable impact was on landmark films. The book not only reaffirms the significance of the political tumultuous year but also gently nudges the readers to appreciate and explore the kind of cinema that left a lasting legacy. For films, the year was but a blessing in disguise.

A music enthusiast and a passionate cinephile, Pratik Majumdar contends that 1975 was a turning year in film-making era that reflected the complexities and hopes of an entire generation. In doing so, Majumdar rewinds the reels for the reader to immerse in a time when Bollywood was not only bold but beautiful, and no less brimming with unforgettable stories. Each of the thirty films that have been explored for their narrative strength but also for distinct treatment by the director. From groundbreaking blockbusters to nuanced dramas, directors showcased their creative prowess to have a lasting impact.

Five decades later, many of the stories still hold relevance. It will forever be celebrated for its landmark films for variety and experimentation. In terms of sheer diversity and creative output, the year not only rejuvenated story telling but created space to experiment to suit the evolving tastes of the audience. Perhaps the greatest testament to the year under reference is that it brought the leading actors closer to its audience. 

1975: The year That Transformed Bollywood opens a window into an era where every line of dialogue echoed across time and every frame was musically steeped in passion. 

1975: The Year That Transformed Bollywood 
by Pratik Majumdar
Hachette, New Delhi. 
Extent: 197, Price: Rs. 499.

First published in The Hindu.