Stardom is an ever-changing concept, influenced by societal shifts, technological advancements, and the evolving nature of cinema itself. In desicinemas, particularly in Bollywood and other regional film industries, the notion of stardom has undergone a profound transformation over the decades. From the golden era of the 1950s to the modern-day, the nature of celebrity in Indian cinema has continuously adapted, reflecting both the industry’s growth and the changing cultural landscape.
In this article, we explore how the concept of stardom in Desi cinema has evolved, from the era of celluloid idols to the rise of digital stars, and examine the factors that have contributed to this dramatic shift.
The Early Years: From Heroes and Heroines to Icons
In the early days of Indian cinema, during the 1930s and 1940s, stars were often seen as larger-than-life figures who symbolized the ideals of the nation. Bollywood, which was still in its infancy, was primarily driven by theatrical performances, and film stars were elevated to the status of mythic beings. Actors like Ashok Kumar, Nargis, Meena Kumari, and Dev Anand became household names, their faces synonymous with the characters they played on-screen. Their popularity transcended the box office, as they were revered in the public eye and regarded as symbols of virtue, beauty, and grace.
In the 1950s and 1960s, stars like Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar dominated the scene, shaping the golden era of Bollywood. They became the epitome of on-screen charisma, embodying not just romantic heroes or tragic lovers, but also socially conscious characters. Films like Shree 420 (1955) and Mughal-e-Azam (1960) showcased the actors’ ability to play roles that resonated deeply with the social and political realities of post-independence India. These stars often had the power to influence public opinion, political discourse, and fashion trends, becoming symbols of both personal and national identity.
The 1960s and 1970s ushered in a new kind of star—Amitabh Bachchan. The ‘angry young man’ persona, which Amitabh popularized in films like Zanjeer (1973) and Deewaar (1975), marked a shift in stardom, blending social commentary with mass appeal. Bachchan’s rise to superstardom was closely linked to the socio-political upheavals of the time, and his on-screen persona gave voice to the frustrations and aspirations of a nation grappling with economic stagnation and political instability. His transformation from a newcomer with a rough voice to a larger-than-life figure signified the changing dynamics of stardom—one that was rooted in the zeitgeist of the time.
The 1980s and 1990s: The Reign of the “Romantic Hero”
The 1980s and 1990s witnessed a further shift in the landscape of Desi cinema, marked by the dominance of the “romantic hero” and the rise of heartthrobs like Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan. During this era, stardom became more closely linked to box-office success, and the media’s increasing role in amplifying celebrity status began to take shape.
Shah Rukh Khan, in particular, epitomized this transformation. Starting his career in television, he moved into Bollywood with films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), where he presented a more accessible, charming, and relatable image. Khan became a symbol of the modern, romantic hero—someone who was not just an object of desire but also emotionally vulnerable. His rise to superstardom coincided with the economic liberalization of India, which resulted in an explosion of consumer culture, media exposure, and a globalized Indian identity. His persona of the “boy next door” resonated with audiences both in India and abroad, solidifying him as one of the most iconic figures in Desi cinema.
At the same time, actors like Aamir Khan and Salman Khan also cemented their positions as the leading men of the era. Aamir, known for his versatility, took on a variety of roles, from the mischievous college student in Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992) to the more serious, socially-conscious figures in films like Lagaan (2001) and Taare Zameen Par (2007). Meanwhile, Salman Khan carved out a space for himself as the quintessential action hero with films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) and Kick (2014), appealing to a more mass-based audience while also engaging with social issues.
This period also saw the rise of the heroine as a powerful figure in Desi cinema, with actresses like Madhuri Dixit, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji becoming stars in their own right. The late 1990s and early 2000s also saw the emergence of glamorous stars like Priyanka Chopra and Kareena Kapoor Khan, who would go on to define stardom in the new millennium.
The New Millennium: The Digital Revolution and Changing Fame
As the 2000s ushered in new technologies, desimovies cinema began to embrace the digital revolution, leading to an entirely new phase in the evolution of stardom. The internet, social media, and streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime have radically transformed how stars are made, how audiences connect with them, and how their work is consumed.
The rise of social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube has allowed actors to build personal brands, interact with their fans directly, and maintain a presence 24/7. This has led to a shift from the traditional “mystique” of stardom—where fans viewed celebrities as distant, unattainable icons—to a more democratized version of fame where stars are more accessible, relatable, and often engage in direct dialogue with their fanbase.
This new wave of stardom has given rise to stars like Virat Kohli, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh, who have cultivated massive fan followings not just through their films but also through their social media presence, endorsements, and public personalities. Ranveer Singh, for example, has redefined the concept of masculinity in Bollywood with his high-energy performances, eccentric fashion choices, and social media antics. Similarly, Deepika Padukone has used her platform to speak on issues of mental health, creating a more grounded, relatable image that extends beyond just her performances.
The Rise of Digital Stars: YouTube and Web Series
Alongside mainstream Bollywood stars, another significant shift in Desi cinema has been the rise of digital-first stars—particularly those who have gained fame through YouTube, TikTok, and other online platforms. These stars, like Bhuvan Bam (BB Ki Vines), Prajakta Koli (Mostlysane), and Kusha Kapila, have leveraged social media to build massive followings and even transition into mainstream acting roles.
With the rise of web series, actors who were previously known for their work in television have found new opportunities in the burgeoning digital entertainment space. Shows like Sacred Games (2018), The Family Man (2019), and Mirzapur (2018) have not only popularized OTT content but have also made digital-first stars like Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi, and Shweta Tripathi household names. These actors, once primarily associated with theatre or television, are now recognized for their performances in web series, blurring the lines between film, television, and digital media.
The increasing focus on content over star power in the OTT space has allowed more nuanced performances to come to the fore. It has democratized stardom, allowing actors from diverse backgrounds to shine without being bound by traditional casting or image-making processes. In this new paradigm, stardom is often more about authenticity, relatability, and the ability to create a strong emotional connection with the audience.
Conclusion: The Future of Stardom in Desi Cinema
The evolution of stardom in desicinema reflects broader societal changes—from the rise of digital culture to the growing influence of social media, and the increasing recognition of diverse voices in film. While the traditional Bollywood hero/heroine still holds sway in many ways, a new era of stars is emerging—one that is less defined by the traditional star-making machinery and more focused on personal brand, social engagement, and cross-media presence.
The future of Desi cinema stardom will likely be defined by a more fluid, multi-dimensional model where actors are not confined to a single medium. Whether through web series, films, or social media, the next generation of stars will continue to shape cultural narratives, redefine fame, and engage audiences in new and exciting ways. What remains clear is that Desi cinema’s stardom is no longer just about the films; it is about the stories, personalities, and connections that transcend the screen.
