It is a fact that Indian films and TV shows have a unique way of storytelling and often finding a way to resonate history with contemporary stories by using them merely as a prop or
backdrop. These stories are rich in culture and history which make the past relevant in today’s conversations. Whether it is a grand palace or bustling market streets the blend of it as a story deepens the emotional impact and serves as a powerful example of how history and culture coexist and influence one another.
In one of the most loved Bollywood films ‘ Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani’, the Udaipur City Palace is not just a grand wedding venue. It symbolises the tension between personal freedom and
familial duties. The centuries old architecture and heritage, mirrors the main character; Bunny’s internal conflict. As he returns for his best friend's wedding the lavish setting contrasts with his free spirited nature elaborating his journey to balance his lifelong adventurous dreams with the responsibilities of relationship and family, the simple call from home. The ties of family or tradition like the royal palace hold significant value. Illustrating that some relationships in life just like the palace itself are old and enduring. They are just as beautiful as the historical palace of Udaipur. Reminding that our history with someone or the relationship between friends or love can make even those seeking freedom find their way back home. Our history with people can be meaningful and everlasting like the historical palace.
In the popular OTT show, "Made in Heaven" the consistent use of historic venues like Delhi’s Sheesh Mahal and Jaipur’s Rambagh Palace serves as a powerful symbol of exploring modern social issues built from age old customs. Sheesh Mahal with its rich cultural heritage highlights issues like one sided marital expectations and dowry. The grand venue known for its beautiful Mughal architecture highlights the contrast between modern values and traditional practices, making it an ideal location for discussions like dowry. Sheesh Mahal’s historical elegance reflects the deep rooted cultural norms and the reaction to challenging this practice with strength and resilience to merge heritage with progressive change. There is an episode featuring the Fort Barwara in Rajasthan. The fort Barwara with its ancient and architectural storied past is the perfect setting for a wedding that defied societal expectations. It beautifully represented a couple’s decision to marry late in life and giving themselves another chance. It celebrated the enduring love breaking of age old customs or social norms. Demonstrating how heritage sites can powerfully reflect and challenge contemporary social issues and break free from any expectations of age and marriage that are not of one’s own will.
Through the use of these Indian heritage sites for storytelling, filmmakers showcase the timeless relevance of India’s rich cultural and historical legacy. History is important and impactful in this context because they carry centuries of cultural and social evolution. They’re a connection to the past and an example of how sometimes values and traditions clash with modern perspectives. They also highlight that not all historic customs are relevant today but it's important to cherish and learn lessons from it and adapt from the rich tapestry of our history and culture to reflect ,improve and create a better.
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