In a striking critique that's sending ripples through the Indian film industry, spiritual leader Sadhguru has called out Bollywood's approach to mythological storytelling, particularly films inspired by the Ramayana, labeling them as "rudimentary" and suggesting audiences have been "hypnotized" into accepting subpar cinematic experiences.
The Hypnosis of Conventional Storytelling
During a recent discussion about mythological adaptations in cinema, Sadhguru didn't mince words when addressing the quality of Ramayana-inspired films. "We have been hypnotised," he stated, pointing to the repetitive and superficial treatment of one of India's most profound epics.
The Isha Foundation founder emphasized that while the Ramayana contains layers of philosophical depth and psychological complexity, most film adaptations have failed to capture its true essence, instead relying on formulaic storytelling and spectacular visuals that lack substance.
Beyond Special Effects and Star Power
Sadhguru's comments come at a crucial time for Bollywood, which has seen several big-budget mythological releases in recent years. His critique suggests that filmmakers are missing the spiritual and philosophical core of these ancient stories in their pursuit of box office success.
"The problem isn't with making films about our epics," Sadhguru clarified, "but with how superficially we're approaching material that deserves much more nuanced treatment." He challenged directors and writers to look beyond special effects and star power to create more meaningful interpretations.
A Call for Deeper Cinematic Exploration
The spiritual leader's remarks have sparked conversations among filmmakers, critics, and audiences alike. Many are now questioning whether Bollywood has indeed been playing it safe with mythological content rather than pushing creative boundaries.
Sadhguru suggested that the solution lies in filmmakers developing a deeper understanding of the source material rather than simply recreating familiar scenes with better technology. "When you truly understand the consciousness behind these stories, the filmmaking becomes entirely different," he explained.
Industry Reactions and Future Implications
While some industry insiders have defended recent mythological productions, citing technical achievements and audience reception, others have acknowledged the validity of Sadhguru's perspective. The discussion has opened doors for potentially more thoughtful approaches to mythological storytelling in Indian cinema.
As Bollywood continues to explore its rich cultural heritage through film, Sadhguru's critique serves as both a warning and an invitation—to move beyond hypnotic repetition toward more awakened, profound cinematic experiences that do justice to India's spiritual legacy.
