London

What is it?
Technically, Bollywood means all Hindi-language movies made in India – but, used more loosely, the term also refers to all movies produced by the megalithic Indian film industry. Bollywood’s most famous film is ‘Sholay’ (1975), it’s the ‘Citizen Kane’ of India and a ‘curry western’ which incorporates all the elements of the ‘formula’: action/romance/song/dance/comedy/tragedy/big stars and a villain from hell called Gabbar Singh. Other key films are ‘Mother India’ (1957), ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ (1995) and ‘Lagaan’ (2001). All four are over three hours long. The biggest actor ever is Amitabh Bachchan who ruled the box office in the ’70s and ’80s and is now back with a bang even though he is over 60. He was known as the ‘one-man industry’ as most of his films turned huge profits. Feature continues

He’s now known as the ‘Big B’. Next up is reigning superstar Shahrukh Khan (King Kahn!) who emerged in the ’90s and is largely responsible for putting Bollywood on the global map. His films are often candy floss romances located in the NRI (non-resident Indian) world of London or New York. The top actress is former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai, who shot to the top with the dreadful movie, ‘Devdas’ in 2002 opposite Shahrukh Khan. She’s now trying to cross over to the West with films like ‘Bride and Prejudice’ and the upcoming ‘Provoked’. Key director is Karan Johar who works with Shahrukh Khan. Their current movie, ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’, is now in the UK top ten.

What to say
There have been Bollywood versions of almost every Hollywood movie to date, from ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (‘Kaante’) to ‘Superman’ (‘Krrish’) and even ‘ET’ (‘Koi… Mil Gaya’). It’s worth trying to spot which dire Hollywood flick inspired the latest Bolly-blockbuster. Drop this into conversation next time you’re eyeing up Aishwarya Rai on the big screen.

What not to say
‘Have you seen “Bend It Like Beckham”?’

Where to start
Right here in London. You can see Bollywood films at many Cineworld and Odeon multiplexes. Your best bet though is to head to Feltham, Wandsworth or Wood Green where cinemas have Bollywood films as permanent fixtures on their schedules. Additionally, London boasts at least four Bolly-only cinemas; the best is the Himalaya Palace in Southall.