Veteran Bollywood actor Sunny Deol has expressed concerns over the declining creativity in the Hindi film industry, attributing it to the growing influence of corporate entities. Speaking at an interactive event in Mumbai on December 9, where he appeared alongside his brother and fellow actor Bobby Deol, Sunny shared his observations on how the industry has evolved over the decades.
The “Gadar 2” star stated that the commercialization of Bollywood has significantly impacted its creative core. “When corporates came in, they weren’t creative people. They didn’t know anything about cinema, and things started changing,” he remarked. According to him, the misuse of power by those in influential positions within corporate setups has led to a shift in the industry’s artistic direction.
Sunny elaborated on his concerns, pointing out that the entry of corporates changed the audience’s taste and the nature of cinema itself. While he acknowledged that these changes have brought commercial success, he lamented the loss of what he described as “deep-rooted cinema.” Highlighting the cultural shift, the actor observed that contemporary Bollywood songs lack the staying power of classics from earlier eras. “Aaj ke gaane nahi yaad rehte (Today’s songs aren’t memorable),” he said, adding that this trend reflects global changes in the entertainment industry.
Despite his critique, Sunny maintained a pragmatic view, stating, “It’s the way the world is moving, and one has to move along with it.” He credited his enduring career, which began with his 1983 debut in Betaab, to his ability to adapt to these changes.
Sunny’s recent blockbuster, Gadar 2, re-established his prominence in the industry, proving that he remains a formidable force in Bollywood. On the professional front, he is currently filming Lahore 1947, a historical drama co-starring Preity Zinta. Additionally, he will feature in Ramayana Part 1 alongside Ranbir Kapoor, followed by projects like Jaat and Border 2.
As Bollywood continues to evolve, Sunny Deol’s candid remarks serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between commercial success and creative integrity in the ever-changing entertainment landscape.