Impact of Hindi Films (Bollywood) on the Indian Diaspora in Honolulu, Hawaii

Abstract

This chapter investigates the impact of Hindi films (popularly known as Bollywood) on the Indian diaspora in Honolulu, Hawaii. Using a short survey and detailed interviews with a few members of the Indian diaspora on the island, it finds a subtle impact of Bollywood films on their travel decisions. Active engagements like dancing, and social community gatherings like Diwali and Holi celebrations, seem to provide the Indian diaspora with a connection to their homeland. While some in the community feel that Bollywood is reflective of urban India, others feel Bollywood only serves to paint a distorted picture of what India should look like, is much more Westernised, and takes away from their experience or connection with their homeland. While some members of the community are more likely to be influenced by Bollywood films and travel to new places in India, others are more likely to travel to their usual destinations, visiting friends and family.