South Asian Posters

Filmmaking is a reflection of the culture it arises from, and Bollywood cinema has been forever intertwined with the Indian identity. The posters from the 1970s, especially the 1975 Alakh Niranjan, resonate with a formative period in the evolution of Bollywood, where the socio-political landscape was continuously shaping the narratives portrayed on screen. The film industry began to explore more complex character representations, especially those of women by integrating them as central figures. During this period, Bollywood began to solidify its role as a cultural touchstone that mirrored the aspirations and anxieties of Indian society. The presence of the panther that the actress holds on a leash is not only a stylistic choice; it reflects themes of power, dominance, and the connection between nature and human emotion, frequently explored in the films of that era. In Hinduism (Sanatana Dharma today), Alakh Niranjan is a term commonly used to refer to the Creator. It is also referenced to describe the qualities of both God and the Self, known as the Atman. The word Alakh translates to “that which cannot be perceived or seen,” while Niranjan means “free from blemishes or impurities.” Similar to Ghanaian horror posters that reflect the unique cultural fears and narratives of their society, Bollywood posters...

Eden Hashish Centre Ganesh poster by acclaimed Indian artist S. Murugakani. with original 1974 calendar attached. Framed in custom brass framed glass frame and tin back, with hange...