Title: “Recognizing Pan-Indian Cinema: A Journey Beyond Regions”

In the grand tapestry of storytelling, Indian cinema stands as a testament to cultural richness and universal human connection. While many may view it through the lens of regional divisions—whether regional films or national cinema—it is time to shift our perspective. Today, we are reminded that Indian cinema transcends regions and becomes a unifying force rooted in the soil we share.

Introduction

The film industry has long been a place of shared heritage, but its evolution over the decades has sometimes been celebrated too much as a regional or national endeavor. This discussion will illuminate how, amidst divisions, unity is born—unite across cultures, languages, and boundaries. Through the lens of WAVES 2025, we will explore how pandemic shifts have redefined our relationship with cinema and how this evolution reflects deeper themes of cultural identity.

Key Insights from WAVES 2025

Sh. Naman Ramachandran: In his panel discussion at WAVES 2025, Sh. Naman Ramachandran highlighted the mythological aspect of Indian cinema. He reminded audiences that while films may originate from different regions or traditions, they are meant to resonate across these divisions. “When you honor our shared heritage, our songs, our stories, our soil, your film stops being regional or national, it becomes Indian cinema and that is what makes everything fall into place,” he observed.

Sh. Nagarjuna echoed this sentiment in his own remarks, emphasizing the richness of Indian cinema. He said, “The rich cultural tapestry weaves together India’s filmmaking traditions. Every film tells stories with love, pride, and authenticity. It is not just about regional or national films—it’s about the soul of India itself.”

Sh. Anupam Kher: Sh. Anupam Kher, a film producer from the Indian film industry, brought a fresh perspective to the panel discussion. He discussed how the pandemic changed our consumption patterns. Kher emphasized that “Audience access should not be limited to regions or languages but to the entire audience.”” While audiences today may find themselves in diverse regions, their connection to Indian cinema is stronger than ever before.

Karthi shared another key insight: “The enduring appetite for larger-than-life experiences resonates deeply with modern audiences. Whether it’s the dance of song and dance in a film or the heartfelt moments of aepic story, these stories carry more emotional weight than spectacle.”

Conclusion

As we reflect on the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, it is clear that unity has been redefined. While divisions may still exist, the richness of cultural identity enriches every film we watch. Through Sh. Naman Ramachandran’s voice, Sh. Nagarjuna’s insights, and Karthi’s words, we are reminded that “Cultural Identity is not a binary—it is a continuum.” And for those who listen with ears and hearts, there can be no greater strength in unity.