Bollywood in Africa

Andrew Leonard posts at Salon about the growing popularity of Indian films in Africa, where postcolonial themes resonate:

The style of the movies and plots deal with the problem of how to modernize while preserving traditional values -- not usually a narrative theme in a Jean-Claude Van Damme or Steven Spielberg movie. Characters choose between wearing Indian or Western-style clothes; following religious or secular values; living with the masses or in rich, western style bungalows. Women often decide whether they should speak shyly to their lover or stand up, look him in the face and declare their love forcefully. Male stars are often presented with the choice between a "traditional" lover, who respects family and dresses modestly, and a modern woman who lives a rich, fast, life hanging around discos and hotels. The use of English by arrogant upper-class characters or by imperious bureaucrats; and even the endemic corruption of police and state officials, all present familiar situations for postcolonial Indian and African viewers.

Original article, "Bollywood Comes to Nigeria" here. (Samar, 1997)

Could be useful reading for a postcolonial discussion week, in combination with one or two films that demonstrate the above traits.