Remember the line? ‘You Gujarati people are so cute, but why does your food sound so dangerous? Dhokla, Fafda, Handwa, Thepla, Khakra, Sounds like missiles.’ While Kareena’s analogy about Gujaratis and their food is world-famous, what’s truly catching the eye is how Gujarati cinema is breaking away from its traditional family and comedy-driven narratives to explore genres like thrillers, coming-of-age dramas, historical dramas, biographies, and more, gaining recognition worldwide.
Films like “Chhello Show” and “Hellaro” have proven their prowess, winning national awards, while others like “Chhello Divas,” “Chaal Jeevi Laiye,” and “Vash” have received tremendous acclaim and recognition from across the board. Even Bollywood has started embracing them with open arms through their remakes, as seen in the recent and noteworthy example of “Shaitaan,” starring Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan, Jyothika, Janki Bodiwala, and Anngad Raaj, the official remake of the OG Gujarati blockbuster “Vash,” directed by Krishnadev Yagnik.
“Vash” is a prime example of Gujarati cinema’s shift in focus to the exhilarating realm of suspense and mystery, which is not only refreshing but also indicative of a broader evolution within Gujarati cinema. By daring to explore new genres and narratives, such films are pushing the boundaries and redefining what audiences can expect from Gujarati films. And a little birdies say that “Vash” is soon expected to make its OTT premiere on ShemarooMe, adding another feather to its cap of success.
Gone are the days when Gujarati content was solely associated with light-hearted comedies and heartwarming family dramas. Filmmakers are now pushing boundaries and experimenting with genres to cater to the evolving tastes of audiences. The response has been overwhelming, with viewers eagerly embracing these thrilling narratives.
It’s not just about entertainment, but also about representation. By diversifying its content, Gujarati cinema is showcasing the richness and versatility of Gujarati culture to the world, breaking stereotypes and proving that there’s more to Gujarati storytelling than meets the eye.