Since Narendra Modi came to power in India, as many as 37 anti-Muslim movies have been released in the billion-dollar Bollywood industry.

Some of the movies including “Kashmir Files,” “Kerala Story,” and “Lipstick Under My Burqa,” contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding the industry’s depiction of the Muslim community.

in 2023 alone, six films that critics argue carry negative stereotypes and fuel animosity against Muslims.

Analysts predict a surge in such releases in the run-up to the 2024 elections, with at least 20 more anti-Muslim films anticipated.

Most of these films tend to depict Muslims as villains, terrorists, or members of criminal organizations, further worsening communal tensions.

Anup Raghav, a prominent commentator on Bollywood affairs, alleges that the Modi government offers tax incentives to productions that align with its political agenda, thus encouraging the creation of movies that abuse the Muslim community.

This isn’t the first instance of Bollywood being used for political gains. Even before the 2019 elections, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strategically employed the film industry to craft narratives that favored their political interests.

The complex relationship between Bollywood and the Modi government underscores a shared interest in shaping public opinion, with the film industry serving as a powerful tool in influencing perceptions.