Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B (2025)

This paper critically examines the evolution of Indian society and cinema parallelly through a sociological perspective trying to trace the developments from the post-independence time period to contemporary times. This article explores how cinema has reflected and shaped societal transformations including shifts in urbanization, economic liberalization, gender dynamics and the rise of individualism in India. By analyzing the key movies across different periods this article highlights the representation of structural inequalities such as caste and class alongside the complexities of globalization and identity formation. The analysis situates cinema as both a cultural product and agent of social reproduction and change addressing the critical issues like gender empowerment, caste-based discrimination and the aspirations of India’s emergent middle class. Drawing on secondary sources this paper emphasizes cinema’s role in not only reinforcing but also challenging dominant social norms concluding with an exploration of the implications of digital media on future cinematic trends and societal narratives.