Bollywood: The Name That Sparked India's Cinematic Magic

Mumbai 11 November (VNI)In the lively world of Indian cinema, the term Bollywood has become synonymous with the Hindi-language film industry. But the origin of this iconic label is subject to debate, sparking intrigue among cinephiles and film historians alike. Two prominent names have surfaced as possible sources for coining this term: Bevinda Collaco, a veteran film journalist, and Amit Khanna, a lyricist, filmmaker, and scholar.

According to media sources Bevinda Collaco claims that she introduced the term in the title of her column On the Bollywood Beat, which appeared in Screen magazine. Her column focused on the latest happenings in the film industry, spotlighting celebrity gossip and studio news. Collaco believes that her use of Bollywood in the early 1970s played a key role in popularizing the term. To Collaco, Bollywood was more than just a catchy label; it represented the unique blend of glamour, artistry, and storytelling that defined the Indian film industry. Her contribution stands as a testament to the influence of media on public perception.

However, other  media sources attribute the term to Amit Khanna, who is regarded as a respected figure in Indian cinema. Khanna, known for his work as a lyricist, filmmaker, and scholar, is credited by many as the creator of Bollywood. His involvement in the film industry provided him with a unique perspective on its development, and he is said to have coined the term as a shorthand reference to the burgeoning Hindi film scene. Khanna's expertise and scholarly approach make a compelling case for his role in popularizing Bollywood as a term that reflects the industry’s global aspirations.

This debate over who truly coined Bollywood highlights the complex interplay between media and culture. While Collaco's usage of the term in her column brought it to the forefront of public consciousness, Khanna’s influence as an industry insider further strengthened its appeal. Ultimately, both figures have left an indelible mark on how the world views Indian cinema, making it clear that Bollywood is not just a word but a cultural phenomenon that celebrates India’s cinematic legacy.