Anupam Kher Hails Regional Cinema's Rise as Pan-India Phenomenon

As of November 14th, 2025, renowned actor Anupam Kher has celebrated the rise of regional cinema in India, emphasizing its transformation into a pan-India phenomenon. Kher observed that these regional industries have become more structured and ambitiously global, a change hastened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which broadened audience horizons regarding diverse filmmaking.

Kher noted that regional cinema is now capturing the essence of Indian narratives that are often overlooked by the dominance of Bollywood. This shift has allowed these regional industries to emerge as a powerful force, challenging the traditional hegemony of the Hindi film industry.

The pandemic played a crucial role in this evolution, as it forced audiences to explore beyond the mainstream and discover the rich tapestry of storytelling from various regional hubs across the country. This exposure has led to a greater appreciation and demand for diverse cinematic experiences, paving the way for regional cinema to flourish and gain a more prominent position in the Indian entertainment landscape.