Sucharita Tyagi: The Indian surge in global cinema

Indian films deeply influence the South Asian diaspora. We know now that an 'Appu' is undoable or a 'Raj Koothrapali' insufferable but even a lovable brown character is also laced with flaws. Where do we draw the line or should we even bother? SBS Spice's Dilpreet explores the complexities of migration and the power of films in enriching these narratives with one of India's most renowned film critics and experts, Sucharita Tyagi.

Widely known for her candour, travels to film festivals and detailed reviews that often lean into the significance of gender in an Indian context, Sucharita Tyagi joins SBS Spice to discuss a topic that is as divisive as it is uniting - Bollywood.

Often criticised for stereotyping, the industry continues to produce some of the biggest productions in the world. Now evolving into a more global entity, Indian films and TV have birthed mega superstars and created story lines that resonate with people far beyond India. However, the limelight has often remained restricted to lead actors.

Sucharita believes that notion must break for better and more diverse storytelling.

Storytellers, actors, journalists, film critics, editors, choreographers—only when we have more people in more spaces can we do a better job of telling better stories.

Sucharita Tyagi on diversity beyond lead actors

With multiple crossovers and a huge surge in Indian migration to the west, how have our stories changed, or rather, how have they changed us?

Tap the audio player to listen to the full interview.

SBS Spice breaks new ground with English language content for young South Asians in Australia by exploring what is making us tick or ick. Find us in your podcast app such as the SBS Audio app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or LiSTNR and follow us on Instagram @SBSSpice