Social ills are often reflected in popular culture. But can popular culture also inspire cures for these diseases? Suave and charismatic actor Aamir Khan, Bollywood’s highest earning star, takes celebrity risks to prove he can. Al Jazeera’s The Snake Charmer is a riveting documentary chronicling the actor’s efforts to bring about cultural change in his home country.
Bollywood movies are by far the most popular and popular form of entertainment in India. Probably more than 100 million viewers enjoy at least one of their movies every week. Given their immense popularity, it’s easy to see how these films could influence social attitudes and cultural norms.
Since the 1970s, as many as 70 percent of Bollywood movies have featured female rape. Given this staggering statistic, critics understandably accuse the industry of indulging in rampant misogyny, promoting shallow female stereotypes, and encouraging violence against women.
Khan has grown accustomed to appearing in films promoting these cheesy themes. But that all changed in 2012, when his troubled conscience prompted him to co-create and host Satyamev Jayate, a primetime show that addresses issues related to female abuse and empowerment.
The film takes viewers behind the scenes of the series and introduces us to one of its interviewees, a mother forced into marriage at age 12 and disfigured by an angry husband.
Through thoughtful conversations about these long-buried issues, if uncomfortable, Khan hopes audiences will see that both the culture and themselves need to change.
Khan’s efforts have also extended to the big screen, further proving the effectiveness of his mission. In 2016, he produced and starred in Dangal, an inspirational story of female courage and determination, which has since become the highest-grossing film in Indian history.
When we look within and ask tough questions, we can all find the strength to change the world around us. The snake charmer is a powerful reminder.
Directed by: Nina Maria Paschalidou
