Cultural diplomacy took center stage as PM Narendra Modi landed in Israel for high-stakes talks, greeted effusively by PM Benjamin Netanyahu. In a nod to shared affinities, Netanyahu mused on February 26 that India-Israel fraternal ties deserved their own Bollywood spectacle—a surefire hit.
This playful observation captures the essence of burgeoning cinematic relations, fueled by Israelis’ passion for Bollywood. Formal ties in film have flourished, as Netanyahu affirmed during his 2017-2018 India engagements.
Modi’s revisit builds on his groundbreaking 2017 tour, with dialogues spanning security imperatives, economic growth engines, tech frontiers, and cultural confluences.
Forged in 2018 amid Netanyahu’s India visit and ratified by Modi’s Cabinet, the co-production accord bestows national film status on joint ventures. Indian creators gain vital boosts in funding, storytelling, talent acquisition, and global outreach.
Per the Ministry of External Affairs, it merges creative prowess, technical know-how, fiscal support, and promotional might. Joint films compete as locals in festivals, tapping incentives for shooting and editing. The pact generates jobs in arts and tech, enriching cross-cultural narratives and fostering harmony.
Flashback to 2018: Netanyahu’s star-studded ‘Shalom Bollywood’ meet-up with Amitabh Bachchan, Imtiaz Ali, and others. He rolled out the red carpet for Bollywood productions in Israel, declared his fandom, and vowed to amplify Hindi cinema’s presence Down Under.
Complementing strengths in defense tech, agrotech, energy security, scientific pursuits, and health innovations, film collaborations paint a vivid partnership portrait. With leaders aligning visions, expect more joint ventures that celebrate the India-Israel saga on the silver screen.