Actor and filmmaker Nandita Das believes that independent cinema will continue to face serious challenges as long as powerful mainstream industries like Bollywood dominate the space. Speaking at a recent literary festival, she explained that large commercial film industries naturally attract most of the audience, funding, and media attention, leaving very limited room for alternative voices.
She pointed out that independent filmmakers often struggle with every stage of their journey — from raising funds to getting proper distribution and reaching viewers. These limitations make it difficult for meaningful, socially driven stories to survive in a market driven largely by profit and commercial appeal.
Nandita Das also highlighted how age continues to be a major barrier in the entertainment industry, especially for women. She noted that as artists grow older, opportunities shrink, reinforcing an industry that prioritizes youth and market value over experience and depth.
Emphasizing the importance of parallel cinema, she said that independent films play a vital role in reflecting social realities, questioning norms, and giving space to unheard voices. While mainstream cinema often focuses on spectacle and mass entertainment, indie films carry the responsibility of thoughtful storytelling.
According to her, without strong institutional support in terms of funding, platforms, and audience awareness, independent cinema will continue to remain on the margins despite its artistic and cultural value.
