Actor Adarsh Gourav has once again captured international attention with his latest film, Superboys of Malegaon, which recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film received a standing ovation, marking another high point in Gourav’s growing international career. Known for his role in The White Tiger (2021), which earned him BAFTA and Oscar nominations, Gourav is fast becoming a significant global figure representing the new wave of Indian cinema.
Gourav believes that international perceptions of Indian cinema are evolving. Traditionally, Bollywood has been associated with musicals, song-and-dance routines, and larger-than-life entertainment. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift, with films exploring a broader range of themes and genres. Speaking about this change, Gourav says, "There have been a few films they [Western audiences] have been watching, and now they know that Bollywood is not just musicals; the industry makes all kinds of films."
A Global Journey: From The White Tiger to Superboys of Malegaon
Superboys of Malegaon showcases Gourav’s continued exploration of diverse narratives and genres. The film, which revolves around the lives and dreams of amateur filmmakers in a small Indian town, has struck a chord with international audiences for its raw, heartfelt portrayal of everyday struggles. The success of this film at TIFF reflects a growing appetite for stories that go beyond the glitz and glamour traditionally associated with Bollywood.
Gourav first broke onto the international scene with The White Tiger, where his nuanced performance as a chauffeur struggling against societal and class divides won him widespread acclaim. The film, based on Aravind Adiga’s Booker Prize-winning novel, was a critical and commercial success globally, challenging long-held perceptions about Indian cinema.
Indian Stories, Global Appeal
What sets Gourav apart as an actor is his commitment to telling stories that are grounded in the Indian experience but have universal resonance. Reflecting on the growing international interest in Indian cinema, Gourav observes, “A lot of what people know about India is through filmmakers who have made films on India but are not from India. In days to come, there are going to be more filmmakers nominated, more writers from the subcontinent who will write local stories that go international.”
This statement highlights the importance of authentic voices from the subcontinent shaping the narrative of Indian cinema on the global stage. Gourav is optimistic that more filmmakers, writers, and actors from India will find international recognition, telling stories that are deeply rooted in their cultural context but relatable to audiences worldwide.
A Moment of Pride: Indian Cinema’s Global Influence
Gourav also shared a memorable anecdote that underscores the far-reaching influence of Indian cinema. During a dinner organized by the makers of Alien: Earth, his upcoming project, he had the chance to meet co-star Essie Davis, a well-known Australian actress. Gourav was pleasantly surprised when Davis revealed that she was a huge fan of Lagaan (2001), a film that played a key role in introducing Indian cinema to global audiences after its Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
Recalling the moment, Gourav says, “Essie was seated next to me, and after we introduced ourselves, she said, 'I am a massive fan of Lagaan.' I was pleasantly surprised when she started singing the songs from Lagaan phonetically. She obviously didn’t know the lyrics by heart but sang them nonetheless." Davis expressed her admiration for Aamir Khan and praised AR Rahman’s music, demonstrating how deeply the film had resonated with her, even years after its release. Gourav adds, “It’s one of my favorite films too. It’s one of my comfort films.”
This encounter serves as a reminder of the global impact that Indian films like Lagaan have had. It’s not just the songs or the spectacle that captivate audiences, but the powerful storytelling and emotional depth that transcend cultural barriers.
The Future of Indian Cinema
As Indian cinema continues to gain recognition worldwide, actors like Adarsh Gourav are helping to broaden its horizons. His career trajectory, from the critically acclaimed The White Tiger to the applause-worthy Superboys of Malegaon, reflects the evolving narrative of Indian cinema on the global stage. No longer confined to the stereotype of musicals, Bollywood is now seen as a space for diverse, genre-defying films that tell powerful, authentic stories.
With the rising popularity of Indian filmmakers and actors on international platforms, the future of Indian cinema looks bright. As Gourav notes, the world is waking up to the fact that Indian films are more than just entertainment—they are stories of identity, struggle, and resilience that have universal appeal.
As Indian cinema continues to evolve and break new ground, actors like Adarsh Gourav will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future, both at home and abroad.