Naseeruddin Shah doubts Bollywood's maturity

Beating its own time-tested formulas for mushy romances and revenge sagas, Bollywood is on its way to adulthood, though not quite there yet, feels Naseeruddin Shah.

Beating its own time-tested formulas for mushy romances and revenge sagas, Bollywood is on its way to adulthood, though not quite there yet, veteran Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah feels.

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"I do not think our industry has matured but yes the attempts to experiment with different subjects, different themes have surely gone up," said the 57-year-old award-winning actor.

"This is a very healthy sign. More attempts at experimentations should happen."

Bollywood has in the past probed themes like AIDS, surrogate motherhood and even extramarital affairs.

Critics say this trend is the sign of maturity from an industry that essentially rolls out formulaic romances, musicals or melodramas.

Shah added that Indian producers, who mostly fund time-tested formulas that are unoriginal and often Hollywood rip-offs, should support filmmakers who are ready to dish out innovative content for the audiences.

"A lot depends on the producers," he said. "They should support fresh content and push originality. India has some very talented directors and they can do well with the help."