How women audiences are championing Marathi films in theatres
Marathi cinema is seeing a resurgence in theatre attendance driven largely by female audiences who influence family viewing decisions. Filmmakers are increasingly tailoring content and showtimes to cater to these groups, who often organize collective outings.
Why it matters
It highlights the shifting demographics of cinema-goers and the economic power of women in the regional Indian film industry.
The inherent innocence of Marathi films is reaffirming. Whether it is the comic outbursts in the multi-starrer classic, Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi (1988), or the mix of thrill and fun in the timeless Zapatlela (1993), Marathi films have exhibited a disarming familiarity to local audiences, who see a part of their middle-class life represented in their own language on screen. Even ideas of womanhood have found powerful release since Maherchi Sadi (1991), which saw women turning out in large numbers and reacting emotionally to the film’s story. Off late, Marathi films have been exploring themes of women's liberation with an emotive touch, and they are largely resonating with female audiences, who are flocking to theatres in groups.
The article provides a cultural analysis based on industry trends and quotes from producers.
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