'Yesterday Once More': How Indian Films Are Bringing India, Russia Closer Again

On Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to collaborate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in promoting Indian films, which he described as "the most popular" among foreign movies in Russia.

His comments come just days before the upcoming BRICS Summit in Russia. India and Russia share long-standing cultural ties, with prominent Russian universities and institutions offering courses in Indian languages.

Photo Credit: PTI

Indian cinema enjoys considerable popularity in Russia, with regular film screenings held across the country.

When asked if Russia would offer incentives for BRICS member states to shoot films in the country, Putin responded, "If we look at BRICS member states, I think in this country, Indian films are the most popular. We have a special TV channel that broadcasts Indian movies round the clock. There is a great deal of interest in Indian films here."

'Ready to speak to the PM Modi'

Putin said that if Indian filmmakers were interested in collaborating with Russia, the government would find common ground to promote them. He also stated his intention to discuss the cultural initiative with Prime Minister Modi.

"We hold the BRICS Film Festival. This year, the Moscow International Film Festival features films from BRICS nations. We are confident that if Indian films are interested, we will find common ground and promote them in Russia. Pharmaceuticals would also be a beneficial venture. I am ready to speak to the Prime Minister of India, and we will come to an understanding without difficulty," he was quoted as saying by ANI.

Not "anti-West", but simply "non-West"

Putin's remarks come ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Russia on 22nd-23rd October for the 16th BRICS Summit. Ahead of the summit in Kazan, Putin emphasised that BRICS is not "anti-West", but rather "non-West", reflecting India's stance as a member of the group.

During an interaction with foreign journalists, Putin said the BRICS doors remain open to new members, and as the group grows, even non-member nations would benefit economically. He accused the United States of trying to hinder China's development, likening it to "telling the sun not to rise."

When asked if there was a timeline for the end of the war in Ukraine, Putin responded that setting one would be difficult and counterproductive. He added that Russia would ultimately prevail.