Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited, sat down for an interview with The Sunday Guardian to share his thoughts about the K-cultural phenomenon in India and his larger vision for PVR INOX Pictures.
Celine Song’s Korean-language film ‘Past Lives’ was recently screened in New Delhi and Mumbai. Joining the premiere in Delhi, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited, sat down for an interview with The Sunday Guardian to share his thoughts about the K-cultural phenomenon in India and his larger vision for PVR INOX Pictures. “We are thrilled to present this special preview of ‘Past Lives’ for cinema enthusiasts. From enchanting Japanese anime to captivating Korean dramas, we strive to bring diverse content to India, captivating audiences with unique storytelling experiences. As the K-cultural phenomenon grows in India, particularly among the youth, we are glad to grow this community by making such content available in cinemas across the country,” rejoiced Bijli.
The special screening was attended by the members of the media, film critics and reviewers, MAMI representatives and officials from the Korean Embassy, among others. “’Past Lives’ is an extraordinary cinematic experience that takes viewers on an unforgettable emotional journey. I think we are really lucky to have acquired the film. For, it film will certainly mesmerize the audiences with its captivating storytelling and unforgettable characters,” opined Bijli. The story of ‘Past Lives’ revolves around two young souls in South Korea, who torn apart by destiny, find themselves reunited decades later. As they confront their shared past, their lives intertwine in ways that defy conventional notions of love and resilience.
The popularity of K-pop among Indian consumers is undeniably increasing. K-dramas and K-pop have also been making their mark on India’s entertainment industry. The storytelling techniques, performances and the emotional depth, and romantic storylines commonly seen in K-dramas have started to impact Indian TV shows and movies. Also, Indian musicians are embracing Korean music and dance styles, demonstrating the influence of K-pop on the broader Indian music scene. “Needless to say, Korean films have gained significant attention in India, captivating viewers with their compelling stories and unique cultural aspects. The worldwide appeal of Korean dramas and the rich diversity of their culture have crossed borders, attracting a growing audience in our country,” added Bijli.
Sang Woo LIM, Deputy Chief of Mission, Korean Embassy in India, who was also present for the screening in New Delhi, expressed his delight to have witnessed a packed audience for the screening. “I am extremely happy to be present at the premiere of ‘Past Lives,’ here in New Delhi. I also would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to PVR INOX and PVR INOX Pictures for playing a great role for introducing Korean Culture to the people of India,” rejoiced Sang Woo LIM. Bijli also touched upon his larger vision for PVR INOX Pictures. “From the distribution point of view we have 10-12 pictures coming out this year. Some of them are smaller films and we also have some bigger titles likes ‘Hunger Games.’ As far as the joint entity is concerned we are looking to expand our cinema business also. We have just now got a license for a 10-screen cinema in Jasola in Delhi. We have got around 100 screens under construction. We should be able to open those in various geographies.
We are also focusing a lot on technology. We keep constantly looking at new innovations and new ways to the movie going experience for our customers,” summed up Bijli.