Calling South cinema superior to Hindi cinema divides us: Karan
The film industry has always been a hub of creative expression and artistic collaboration. The recent debate about the superiority of South Indian cinema over Hindi cinema has sparked a heated discussion among filmmakers, critics, and audiences alike. Filmmaker Karan Johar, known for his iconic Bollywood films, recently weighed in on the issue, stating that calling South cinema superior to Hindi cinema is incorrect and divisive.
At the WAVES 2025 discussion, Karan Johar shared his thoughts on the matter, saying, “We aren’t North…South, we’re collectively making cinema what it is.” He emphasized that Indian cinema is a collective effort, and to pit one region against another is not only unfair but also damaging.
Karan’s statement is a crucial reminder that the film industry is not fragmented along regional lines. Rather, it is a unified entity that brings together talented individuals from across the country to create stories that resonate with audiences globally. By acknowledging this collective effort, we can move beyond the artificial boundaries that separate us and celebrate the rich diversity of Indian cinema as a whole.
The debate about South Indian cinema’s superiority over Hindi cinema has been ongoing for some time. While there are undoubtedly many excellent films from both regions, the notion that one is superior to the other is a divisive and inaccurate assertion. Karan Johar’s words serve as a gentle rebuke to those who promote this narrative, reminding us that Indian cinema is a shared cultural heritage that transcends regional boundaries.
One of the primary concerns of Karan’s statement is the impact it has on the film industry as a whole. When we pit one region against another, we create a sense of competition and exclusivity that can lead to fragmentation and division. This, in turn, can stifle creativity and collaboration, ultimately harming the very fabric of the film industry.
Moreover, the notion that South Indian cinema is superior to Hindi cinema is a simplistic and reductionist view of the complex and multifaceted nature of Indian cinema. Both regions have produced some of the most iconic and beloved films in Indian cinema, and to suggest that one is inherently better than the other is not only inaccurate but also unfair.
In reality, Indian cinema is a rich tapestry of diverse stories, styles, and genres that together create a unique and vibrant cinematic landscape. By celebrating the diversity of Indian cinema, rather than pitting one region against another, we can foster a sense of unity and cooperation that benefits the entire industry.
Karan Johar’s statement also serves as a reminder of the importance of media responsibility in perpetuating this narrative. When Indian media outlets ask questions that promote division and competition, they are inadvertently contributing to the fragmentation of the film industry. As Karan Johar so eloquently put it, “I request Indian media that when you ask this, you’re dividing us. And when you divide us, you break us.”
In conclusion, Karan Johar’s words are a timely reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in the film industry. By acknowledging the collective effort of Indian cinema, rather than perpetuating artificial divisions, we can create a more inclusive and creative environment that benefits all regions and stakeholders. As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize media responsibility and promote a narrative that celebrates the diversity and richness of Indian cinema as a whole.
