Changing Face of Bollywood

1977

The Kapoor Erotica

Few films have had such ballyhoo as Raj Kapoor's Satyam Shivam Sundaram. At every stage of its production, the multi- million- rupee colossus has kept the tongues wagging within the film industry. Film magazines, kept at bay during the shooting, have written snide articles condemning the film and its maker. Rival producers, concerned about the possible boxoffice competition the film will pose, are busy spreading stories that Raj Kapoor has lost his touch; and an eager public wait to see if SSS will prove a spectacular hit such as Bobby, or a flop like Mera Naam Joker. I NDIA TODAY, NOVEMBER 1 5, 1 977

1993

The Madhuri Magic

If Madhuri Dixit has got the entire country swaying to the Choli beat, she also has the film industry dancing to her tune. In the industry, they now speak of Madhuri strictly in superlatives. “She’s a 10,” says Beta producer Ashok Thakeria. “The Madhuri craze is fantastic,” says Vinod Doshi, who financed Dil and Beta. I NDIA TODAY, SEPTEMBER 1 5, 1 993

2007

Bachchan vs Khan

Call it the clash of titans or the confrontation of generations, but it is a stealth war that is being fought with iron wills, velvet gloves, and steel- edged smiles. In the Jalsa corner is the once and forever Shahenshah. In the Mannat corner is the Badshah. In the audience, split down the middle, are some of the most influential people, from the Gandhis to the Ambanis. I NDIA TODAY, J ANUARY 1 , 2007