Films can help foster China, India relations

Several Indian films have, in recent years, become hits in China, prompting industry insiders and observers from both countries to call for enhanced cooperation in the movie sector to foster mutual understanding between the two neighbors.

"Indian movies have a special appeal to Chinese audiences because of similar cultural values," the Chinese embassy in New Delhi said in a statement. "Humanistic care and profound feelings transcend borders. China and India can strengthen cooperation in the movie sector and promote mutual understanding between the two peoples."

Indian films have sparked multiple waves of enthusiasm in China, the embassy said. Among them, Dangal tops the Chinese box office, earning nearly 1.3 billion yuan ($177.3 million).

In November, the Tamil action thriller Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi, made a record-breaking debut in Chinese cinemas. Last week, Chinese embassy spokeswoman Yu Jing shared a post on X featuring the cast, writing: "Maharaja has become the highest-grossing Indian film in China since 2018, reaching (rupees) 91.55 crore ($10.6 million).Well done."

Indian films with romantic and social themes have recently gained popularity in China, carving out a lucrative market niche.

Maharaja, directed by Nithilan Saminathan, grossed more than 50 million yuan ($6.8 million) at the box office in the first 10 days, according to cinema ticket sales platform Maoyan.

Ahead of its release, the film earned an impressive 8.7/10 rating on Douban, China's movie review site, and is expected to rank among the top 10 Indian films in China in box office earnings.

Indian actor Aamir Khan's Hindi films have enjoyed significant success in China, with Dangal (2016) becoming a major hit.

Dangal ranks among the top 20 highest-grossing foreign films in China. Other Hindi films such as Secret Superstar (2017) also achieved remarkable box office success.

Indian director Goutam Ghose said filmmakers from both countries can collaborate on projects that will enhance bilateral relations.

"There are many beautiful stories from both sides. Stories from history, stories from today's time can connect India and China so well. Co-production can be an interesting scope for the younger generation in bringing new vision and new perception between the two countries," he said.

Bridging gaps

Films can bridge gaps in understanding, especially as newer generations may forget the rich historical and cultural ties between India and China, Ghose said. His film Raahgir was screened at the 2020 Shanghai International Film Festival.

Hong Yanyan, a doctoral scholar at The University of Adelaide in Australia, said: "Indian films resonate with Chinese audiences because they blend universal themes with emotionally rich narratives. Films like Dangal and Bajrangi Bhaijaan focus on family bonds, personal struggles and social issues — topics that strongly resonate in China, where family values and social narratives hold deep cultural significance."

Having studied the popularity of Indian films in China, Hong said the portrayal of everyday challenges, heartfelt performances and engaging music make them uniquely appealing.

Indian cinema offers an extraordinary gateway to understanding the country's culture, values and people, she said. She suggests that joint film productions, cultural exchanges and film festival collaborations can help bridge the gap and strengthen ties between the two countries.

The writer is a freelance journalist for China Daily.