In scriptwriting, creating authentic and relatable characters is key to engaging audiences. When writing Indian characters, representing diverse identities and backgrounds within India enriches the storytelling experience.
Let’s delve into the nuances of crafting authentic Indian characters from different regions and backgrounds, and discuss the significance of representation in scripts.
Understanding Diversity in India
India is a country of immense diversity, encompassing various languages, cultures, religions, traditions, and lifestyles. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene landscapes of Kerala, each region offers a unique perspective and set of experiences. When writing Indian characters, it's crucial to research and understand the nuances of the specific region or community they belong to. This includes their language, dialect, customs, beliefs, attire, cuisine, and social dynamics.
Imagine a script set in Kolkata, where the protagonist is a young Bengali woman navigating her career in the bustling art scene of the city. Through her interactions with friends and family, the script explores Bengali customs such as Durga Puja celebrations, adda sessions (informal gatherings for discussions), and Bengali phrases in dialogue to capture the essence of Kolkata's cultural fabric.
Avoiding Stereotypes
One of the pitfalls in scriptwriting is falling into stereotypes, which can oversimplify or misrepresent a culture. Instead of relying on clichés or generalisations, strive to create multidimensional characters with depth and authenticity. Avoid painting all Indian characters with the same brush and recognize that diversity exists within communities.
Instead of portraying all South Indians as IT professionals or all Punjabis as loud and boisterous, a script could feature a South Indian character who is passionate about traditional Carnatic music but also loves experimenting with electronic music, breaking the stereotype of a conservative classical musician. Similarly, a Punjabi character could be depicted as a sensitive artist grappling with family expectations rather than relying on clichéd portrayals of Punjabi bravado.
Incorporating Cultural Specificities
To make Indian characters authentic, incorporate cultural specificities that add depth to their identities. This could involve using regional languages or dialects in dialogue, showcasing traditional practices or rituals, referencing historical events or folklore, and depicting everyday experiences that resonate with Indian audiences.
In a script set in Rajasthan, the characters could be shown wearing traditional Rajasthani attire like ghagra-cholis and turbans, engaging in folk dances like Ghoomar, and savouring Rajasthani cuisine such as dal bati churma. These cultural elements add authenticity to the characters' identities.
Embracing Modernity and Tradition
Indian society blends modernity and tradition, where old customs often coexist with contemporary lifestyles. Showcasing this duality in your characters can make them more relatable and dynamic. Explore how they navigate traditional values and modern challenges, and how their backgrounds influence their perspectives and choices.
A script centred around a family in a small town in Tamil Nadu could highlight the generational conflicts between traditional values and modern aspirations. For instance, the protagonist, a young woman pursuing a career in engineering, faces resistance from her conservative grandparents who prioritise arranged marriage over her ambitions, showcasing the tension between tradition and progress.
Importance of Representation
Representation matters deeply in scriptwriting, as it shapes how audiences perceive different cultures and identities. By including diverse Indian characters in scripts, you not only reflect the reality of Indian society but also provide opportunities for underrepresented voices to be heard. Authentic representation fosters empathy, understanding, and appreciation for diverse perspectives.
In a script about an LGBTQ+ support group in Mumbai, the characters could come from diverse backgrounds representing different sexual orientations, gender identities, religions, and socioeconomic statuses. By portraying their intersecting identities and experiences, the script promotes acceptance and understanding within Indian society.
Research and Collaboration
Writing authentic Indian characters requires thorough research and, when possible, collaboration with individuals from the communities you are representing. Seek input from cultural consultants, engage in dialogue with people from diverse backgrounds, and approach storytelling with sensitivity and respect.
Before writing a script featuring a Sikh character, collaborating with a Sikh cultural consultant can provide valuable insights into religious practices, cultural norms, and the significance of symbols like the turban and kirpan. This collaborative approach ensures accuracy and respect in portraying diverse communities on screen.
To Conclude….
Creating authentic Indian characters in scripts involves embracing diversity, avoiding stereotypes, incorporating cultural specificities, balancing modernity and tradition, emphasising the importance of representation, and conducting thorough research.
By crafting nuanced and relatable characters, scriptwriters can contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant storytelling landscape that resonates with audiences worldwide.