A New India
Chapter 256 - 256: Bollywood

The morning sun spilled golden light into Rohan's office as he sat deep in thought, reviewing reports from the ministries.

Healthcare was on track; education reforms were progressing steadily, and defense projects were breaking new ground.

Yet, there was something tugging at the edges of his mind, something cultural, intangible, and deeply impactful.

Bollywood.

India's film industry was an unstoppable cultural force, beloved domestically and increasingly popular abroad.

But Rohan had seen what Bollywood would become in the decades ahead, through the lens of his unique experience with time.

He had witnessed its evolution into a medium often exploited for propaganda, narratives that undermined national identity, and stories that glorified invaders or eroded India's heritage.

He had also seen its missed potential, a powerhouse that could have celebrated India's epics, its resilience, and its philosophy on a global scale.

Rohan exhaled slowly.

Cinema wasn't just entertainment; it was a weapon.

A soft power tool capable of shaping how a nation was perceived both by its citizens and the world.

In the right hands, Bollywood could become India's cultural ambassador, highlighting its diversity, richness, and history.

But for that to happen, it needed direction.

He rang the intercom. "Neeraj, call Harish here immediately."

Within forty minutes, Harish Patel, the Finance Minister, entered, his signature notebook tucked under his arm.

His expression carried a mix of curiosity and caution, sensing something monumental. "You called, Sir?"

Rohan gestured for him to sit. "Yes. We need to talk about Bollywood."

Harish blinked, his pen already poised over the notebook. "Bollywood? What's on your mind?"

"It's time we take control," Rohan said bluntly. "Bollywood is a cultural juggernaut, but it's heading in the wrong direction. If left unchecked, it could do more harm than good."

Harish raised an eyebrow. "Bollywood is entertainment. Are you saying it's dangerous?"

"Entertainment is only one layer," Rohan replied. "Cinema shapes perceptions, influences public opinion, and acts as a form of soft power. Right now, Bollywood is rudderless. It glorifies invaders, distorts history, and undermines our culture. We cannot allow that to continue."

Harish began jotting notes. "What's your vision?"

Rohan's tone sharpened. "First, the government will pour significant resources into Bollywood. We'll build world-class studios, fund ambitious projects, and create training programs for future filmmakers. But here's the condition: all films must align with our cultural ethos. They must promote Hindu culture, philosophy, and historical truths. Narratives glorifying other religions or portraying Hinduism negatively will find no support."

Harish froze, his pen hovering mid-air. "Sir, that's a drastic shift. Bollywood thrives on diversity. Won't this alienate a large part of the industry?"

Rohan leaned forward, his gaze intense. "This isn't about alienation, Harish. It's about preservation. For times, Bollywood has ignored its responsibility. It has glorified invaders, whitewashed history, and neglected the richness of Hindu contributions. That stops now. Cinema must reflect the truth, honor our heritage, and align with the values of this country."

Harish looked skeptical. "And if the industry resists?"

"They won't win," Rohan said firmly. "We're going to make Bollywood financially dependent on the government. With the level of investment we're about to pour in, they'll have no choice but to comply. And those who refuse? They'll find themselves facing financial and regulatory hurdles."

Harish sighed, his pen scribbling again. "What kind of stories are you envisioning, specifically?"

"Our epics, for starters," Rohan replied. "The Ramayana, Mahabharata, the Puranas these are timeless treasures. They embody heroism, resilience, and virtue. Then there are the stories of Hindu rulers Shivaji, Maharana Pratap, the Cholas. Their legacies deserve the grandeur they never received. And here's a rule, Harish: the heroes in these films must be Hindu. If there are villains, especially in historical contexts, they should reflect the truth those who sought to harm or colonize us."

Harish frowned. "This approach could spark massive controversy. People might call it censorship."

"Censorship?" Rohan scoffed. "Harish, cinema is a weapon. If we don't wield it, someone else will. Bollywood has the power to shape how the world sees India and how Indians see themselves. We cannot leave that to chance."

Harish leaned back, his expression contemplative. "Alright, let's talk logistics. What infrastructure are you planning?"

"Three new studios," Rohan said. "Two in Mumbai and one in Hyderabad. Each will have state-of-the-art facilities sound stages, editing suites, visual effects labs. We'll also establish a Film Development Board to oversee funding, project approvals, and ensure alignment with the cultural mandate."

Harish paused, calculating. "How much will this cost?"

"₹100 crore to start," Rohan replied without hesitation. "It's a significant investment, but the returns culturally, economically, and diplomatically will be immeasurable."

"And the censorship board?" Harish asked.

"We'll reform it entirely," Rohan said. "The current board is outdated and inconsistent. The new censorship board will focus on upholding cultural values and preventing anti-national narratives. This isn't about stifling creativity; it's about protecting the nation."

Harish chuckled softly. "And if the industry pushes back?"

"They won't stand a chance," Rohan said bluntly. "Our financial leverage will ensure compliance. Bollywood survives on funding, and we'll control that."

Harish closed his notebook and sighed. "Alright, Rohan. I'll get started on the financial framework. Let me know when you're ready to take this to the industry."

As Harish left, Rohan's mind raced with the next steps.

He needed to bring the industry on board, but he also knew it wouldn't be easy.

The stakes were high, but the prize was worth it.

Bollywood could become India's cultural torchbearer, a beacon of its rich history, vibrant traditions, and enduring values.

The next evening, Rohan sat with Neeraj to plan a meeting with Bollywood's leading figures. "Actors, directors, producers I want everyone in the room," Rohan said. "They need to hear this vision directly."

"Do you anticipate resistance?" Neeraj asked.

Rohan smirked. "Always. But the incentives will speak louder than their objections."

Neeraj nodded. "And what about the media? How do you plan to manage the narrative?"

"We'll control it," Rohan said. "Frame this as a cultural renaissance, a return to our roots. Anyone opposing it will appear out of touch with the nation's values."