A Bollywood State of Mind
A journey into the world's biggest cinema
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Footnote Press Ltd
Published:19th Oct '23
Should be back in stock very soon
This book offers an insightful exploration of Bollywood's cultural significance, highlighting its global impact and personal resonance for countless fans. A Bollywood State of Mind is a heartfelt tribute to Indian cinema.
In A Bollywood State of Mind, Sunny Singh takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the intricate histories of India, its performance traditions, and cultural legacies. This work serves as a heartfelt tribute to Indian cinema, reflecting the deep connections that millions share with Bollywood films. Singh draws upon her own experiences growing up in a film-obsessed culture, where movies shaped identities, moral values, and friendships, creating a rich tapestry of memories and emotions.
The narrative spans five continents and covers over fifty years of modern Indian history and cinema. Singh explores the profound impact Bollywood has had on India's global image in the 21st century and delves into the reasons behind its enduring significance. The book highlights how this unique cinema continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, despite the myriad social and political transformations that have occurred over the decades.
Through a blend of history, aesthetic theory, and personal anecdotes, A Bollywood State of Mind showcases Bollywood's influence in diverse settings—from bustling marketplaces in Dakar and Marrakesh to vibrant nightclubs in New York and beyond. Singh illustrates how the pioneers and icons of Bollywood transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, creating a shared cinematic language that connects people from various backgrounds, including those in Somalia, Peru, Malaysia, and Russia.
'Bright, brilliant and beautifully researched, this glorious book is my biggest recommendation of the year. Sunny Singh's honouring of story and history shine through powerfully - an exquisitely enjoyable read!' -- Nikita Gill
'Singh's book is an unrivalled celebration of Bollywood films...the nostalgia unfurled the sepia vignettes of memory from a distant almost forgotten past into the glittering joy of the present day' -- Shobna Gulati
'Part history, part personal reminiscence, A Bollywood State of Mind is a thoughtful, magical journey through the annals of the world's largest, most spectacular and most vivacious film industry. A gem of a book and a must for film lovers everywhere' -- Abir Mukherjee
'A masterful memoir, Singh's love story with Bollywood is one told with precision, authority and panache, capturing the all-singing, all-dancing joy and wonder of Indian cinema' -- Monisha Rajesh
'A deeply personal, deeply political dive into one of the most popular forms of entertainment today. Part memoir, part film criticism, part cultural excavation, Singh writes with passion, clarity and introspection' -- Nikesh Shukla
'This is a gorgeous, perfect, mini-blockbuster of a book that tells story upon story within story of India's beloved Hindi cinema and all those who make and love it, in India and wherever they - we! because I count myself among its lovers - have travelled all over the world. Part personal and family memoir, part social history of modern India and its neighbours and diasporas, part expert (but never, ever stuffy) analysis of how India's classic dramatic storytelling aesthetics have morphed into modern cinema, part close explanation of the cinematic techniques makers use to entrance and enfold their audiences - Sunny Singh's genre-defying book gets to the essential emotional heart - the rasa - of Bollywood cinema. I loved this joyful, wonderful book with my whole heart.' -- Dr. Katherine Schofield
ISBN: 9781804440421
Dimensions: 222mm x 144mm x 27mm
Weight: 392g
272 pages