2025, Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B

This paper explores the evolution of Hindi cinema with a focus on its golden age, spanning the 1940s to the 1960s, when the industry achieved remarkable artistic and cultural depth. It traces the early foundations of Indian cinema, beginning with mythological and historical themes, and examines the transition to sound films that reshaped audience experiences. The golden age is highlighted as a period when filmmakers combined realism, music, star power, and narratives rooted in social realities.

Within this context, the paper places particular emphasis on Mughal-e-Azam (1960), a landmark historical epic that showcased the grandeur, craftsmanship, and emotional intensity of the era. Beyond its aesthetics, the film demonstrated Hindi cinema’s ability to merge history with contemporary culture, leaving a lasting imprint on audiences. By situating Mughal-e-Azam within the larger developments of the golden period, this study understands how cinema functioned not only as entertainment but also as a vital medium for cultural expression and nation-building.