The Unsung Heroes of Storytelling

In the vibrant world of Indian cinema, where emotions, drama, and music intertwine, the writer is the silent force behind every blockbuster. Veteran screenwriter and lyricist Mayur Puri recently shared a compelling perspective on the evolving role of writers, describing them as both the "father and mother" of content. “Every blockbuster film was once a blank page,” he remarked, highlighting the writer’s foundational role in transforming ideas into cinematic masterpieces. This powerful metaphor underscores the creative spark that writers ignite, giving birth to stories that captivate millions.

A Golden Era Lost

Puri reflects on a time when writers in Indian cinema were revered. During the golden age of storytelling, luminaries like Rahi Masoom Raza, known for scripting the iconic Mahabharat TV series, enjoyed creative freedom and respect. Writers were encouraged to explore bold ideas, crafting narratives that resonated deeply with audiences. This era celebrated the written word, with society valuing the artistry of storytelling. However, this reverence began to fade, partly due to a shift in creative output.

The Decline of Quality

From the late 1980s to the early 1990s, Puri notes, the quality of screenwriting took a hit. “Writers wrote bad stuff—horrible movies,” he candidly admits, acknowledging that the industry and writers themselves share the blame. During this period, subpar films flooded the market, eroding the respect writers once commanded. This decline wasn’t just an industry issue; it mirrored a broader societal shift. Puri points out that while literacy rates in India have risen, the focus has shifted to technical fields like math and business, leaving literature and poetry neglected. He poignantly observes the absence of poetry sections in bookstores, now dominated by self-help books—a sign of a society prioritizing quick fixes over creative depth.

The Cultural Cost of Neglecting Literature

Puri draws a striking connection between the decline of literary appreciation and societal challenges like anxiety and depression. “When poetry and literature are left behind, you’ll need self-help,” he argues. This cultural shift, he suggests, has consequences for storytelling. Audiences, too, play a role in this cycle. By supporting films lacking substance, they inadvertently encourage substandard content, creating a feedback loop that diminishes the writer’s craft. Puri’s critique is a call to action for both creators and viewers to demand better.

A Hopeful Revival

Despite these challenges, Puri remains optimistic. He believes the industry is entering a new phase where quality content is regaining value. “After every decade or so, when content depletes, writers are remembered,” he says. This cyclical nature of the industry offers hope for a revival, driven by the need for compelling stories. With a career spanning blockbusters like Om Shanti Om, Happy New Year, and Hindi adaptations of global hits like The Lion King and Avengers: Endgame, Puri’s insights carry weight. His work exemplifies the power of skilled writing to shape cultural narratives.

A Shared Responsibility

Puri’s reflections are a reminder that storytelling is a collective effort. Writers, the industry, and audiences must work together to elevate the craft. By valuing literature and supporting meaningful content, society can rediscover the magic of the written word. As Puri eloquently puts it, the journey from a blank page to a blockbuster begins with a writer—a truth that Indian cinema must embrace to thrive.

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