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International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management

A Peer-Reviewed, Open-Access International Journal Supporting Multidisciplinary Research, Digital Publishing Standards, DOI Registration, and Academic Indexing.
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ISSN: 3108-1754 (Online)
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Peer Review: Double Blind
Volume 02, Issue 05

Published on: May 2026

NARRATIVES OF ASPIRATION: THE SHIFT FROM ENTERTAINMENT TO EMPOWERMENT IN CONTEMPORARY INDIAN CINEMA AND ITS IMPACT ON YOUTH ASPIRATIONS

Dr. Chandrakant Y. Brahmkshatri

S & H Dept., KSET

Drs. Kiran & Pallavi Patel Global University, Varnama Vadodara
DOI:https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v2i5.252

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Abstract

This study examines the role of contemporary Indian cinema in potentially influencing youth aspirations. Indian cinema has long included narratives of romance, melodrama and escapism, and in recent years it has also featured more films centred on perseverance, ethical responsibility and professional achievement. This shift may reflect broader socio-economic transformations, including globalization, technological advancement and intensified competition in education and employment sectors.

Drawing upon Social Learning Theory, Uses and Gratifications Theory, and Cultivation Theory, this study examines how cinematic narratives may influence youth identity formation, motivation and career aspirations. The study uses qualitative textual analysis of selected films, with 12th Fail as the primary case study and the other films used for comparative illustration.

The analysis suggests that contemporary Indian cinema may both reflect and reinforce themes relevant to youth development. By promoting narratives of resilience, integrity and dedication, cinema may reflect and reinforce broader themes of skill development and employability discussed in the India Skills Report 2025. However, critical media literacy remains essential to contextualize cinematic narratives. The paper considers how such cinema may support value-based education when paired with critical engagement.

Keywords: Indian cinema, youth aspirations, motivational films, media influence, nation-building, employability, value-based education, cinematic narratives

How to Cite this Paper

Brahmkshatri, C. Y. (2026). Narratives of Aspiration: The Shift from Entertainment to Empowerment in Contemporary Indian Cinema and Its Impact on Youth Aspirations. International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management, <i>02</i>(05). https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v2i5.252

Brahmkshatri, Chandrakant. "Narratives of Aspiration: The Shift from Entertainment to Empowerment in Contemporary Indian Cinema and Its Impact on Youth Aspirations." International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management, vol. 02, no. 05, 2026, pp. . doi:https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v2i5.252.

Brahmkshatri, Chandrakant. "Narratives of Aspiration: The Shift from Entertainment to Empowerment in Contemporary Indian Cinema and Its Impact on Youth Aspirations." International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management 02, no. 05 (2026). https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v2i5.252.

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References


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  • •Published on: May 08 2026
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