Bollywood - Where the Fun Never Ends!

Believe me. You've got to check out at least one movie created by one of the most prolific movie producing factories of the world. Though the name may be derived from its more famous counterpart - Hollywood - the similarities end there. Bollywood movies have a completely different flavor and a very distinct way of presentation.

For one, they have countless song and dance sequences. Now, this would normally be reserved for musicals in Hollywood; but there are very few Bollywood movies that overlook the musical aspect. Much before it is released, a movie may ensure a wide, enthusiastic audience based on its soundtrack alone. On the flip side, a movie without songs will be given a half hearted welcome. To the novice it might seem strange to see a young couple, followed by many dancers, suddenly gyrating to pulsating music after a seemingly unrelated scene. However, through such distracting dance and song routines, the director creates a unique package that stands the test of time, so much so that many of the old black and white movies still command an amazing audience on the strength of their music alone. And then of course there are the dances - so energetic and full of life that "Bollywood dance" has now become an exercise mania. The funky beats of "Bride and Prejudice" made even the lovably prim characters of Jane Austen's famous novel, joyously exuberant.

If you are hoping to see India, Bollywood movies can take you on a virtual tour. The culture, beauty and eccentricities of this country are visible in exaggerated proportions in its movies. The points that will immediately stand out in these movies are the familial bonding - a favorite subject for movie making, gorgeous saris - inevitably used to drape the older characters or the married ones, innocent romances - provide excellent grounds for musical experimentation and slapstick comedy - usually added as an after thought. In fact, since many of the storylines revolve around Non Resident Indians or NRIs, many producers are increasingly shooting in locales outside India. So you might even be taken on a tour to the most beautiful locations around the world and get to watch the Indian characteristics unfold in entirely new settings. "The Namesake" is one of the many such movies that stand out.

Yet another distinguishing aspect is color. An Indian movie is nothing if not colorful and bright. An Indian wedding lights up the screen with an amazing kaleidoscope of pretty hues. Reds, yellows, greens, blues - the audience is treated to the most alluring saga of multicolored dreams. Anybody who has seen "Monsoon Wedding" will be able to attest to the excellent use of colors to add flamboyance to this delightfully sensitive movie.

Bollywood movies are spicy. They are lavish, funny and occasionally silly but they definitely deliver on their promise of being "family entertainers". The melodrama might move you or strike you as over-the-top but a classic Bollywood fare certainly guarantees escapism for a few hours. It is your ticket to an effortlessly charming and vibrant show of emotions that infects you with its ebullience and warmth. Just like the Indian curry, this complex celebration of love and life might take you some time to get used to, but once hooked, you will be hooked for life.