New Walk Museum & Gallery, Leicester presents 'Cinema India: The Art of Bollywood', a touring exhibition organised by the V& A, London, from 2nd July – 6th November 2005. The exhibition celebrates the largest film industry in the world. Referred to as ‘Bollywood’, it is based in Mumbai (Bombay) and generates music, fashion and images that have become an integral part of the popular culture of urban India and Indian communities worldwide.

The vibrant and colourful posters and advertisements reflect the distinct style of Bollywood films, which are characterised by bold imagery, song and dance sequences, archetypal characters and exaggerated depictions of emotion.

Cinema India brings together some of the most remarkable examples of Indian cinema art, exploring the history of Bollywood film advertising from 1947 to the present day. It features advertising from some of the most important films ever made in India, from Mother India to Sholay, from Pakeezah to Lagaan. Featuring posters, lobby cards, hoardings and song booklets, the exhibition explores the impact of popular culture and its representation of social events and cultural change.

A full events programme accompanies the exhibition including family art and craft workshops, film shooting workshop, Bollywood dance workshops, talks, trails, performances and the first heats of ‘BollyIdol 2005’. Test your film knowledge with Bollywood Brain Drain hosted by Raj & Pablo on 27th August. ‘Antakshari’ comes to New Walk Museum on 28th October, offering a fantastic evening with family and friends playing this exciting musical game with a wide range of old and new Indian film songs played by a live band. Phoenix Arts, Leicester will be screening South Asian movies during the Cinema India Season.

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