Framing the Other: The Representation of Muslims in Post-Colonial Indian Cinema

Abstract

Indian cinema, particularly Bollywood, has long been a powerful medium for shaping cultural narratives and public perceptions. This paper explores the portrayal of Muslims in Indian cinema, focusing on the dynamics of “othering” that have emerged in the post-colonial context. Through a critical analysis of select films Sarfarosh (Matthan, 1999), Fanaa (Kohli, 2006), Kurbaan (D’Silva, 2009), and New York (Khan, 2009) this study examines how cinematic representations have often marginalized Muslim characters, depicting them through stereotypes that reinforce communal biases and socio-political divides. Drawing on theories of othering and post-colonial critique, this paper argues that these portrayals are not merely reflective of societal prejudices but also actively contribute to constructing and perpetuating these biases. By scrutinizing the narratives, character arcs, and visual cues used in popular films, the study highlights the nuanced ways Muslims are positioned as the “Other” within the national imaginary. Furthermore, this paper situates the discussion within the broader framework of South Asian cinema’s engagement with global cosmopolitanism, interrogating how international market forces and local socio-political contexts intersect to shape these cinematic narratives. The aim is to uncover these representations’ ideological underpinnings and suggest pathways for future inclusive and diverse portrayals. Ultimately, this paper seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the role of cinema in reflecting and shaping societal attitudes, advocating for a more nuanced and empathetic representation of marginalized communities in Indian cinema.