Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the landscape of Indian cinema, with filmmakers across Bollywood embracing this technology to enhance various aspects of production. According to a Reuters report, directors, producers, and studio executives are increasingly relying on AI to streamline the filmmaking process.
In India, the application of AI spans numerous stages of production, including editing, modifying actors’ facial expressions for dubbing in different languages, generating special effects, and even reimagining film endings. As the country known for producing the most films globally, these advancements could significantly influence the industry.
One notable benefit of AI is the reduction in production timelines, reshaping the financial dynamics of filmmaking. For instance, the Indian startup NeuralGarage leverages AI to translate films into various languages while seamlessly synchronising actors’ lip movements and expressions with the dubbed dialogue.
A prime example of AI’s innovative role in storytelling is the re-release of the acclaimed film Raanjhanaa by Eros Media World. This time, the film featured a modified ending, changing its originally tragic conclusion to a joyful one. The decision to alter the film proved a hit, with attendance in August 2025 rising 12% compared to other releases, according to Reuters.
Studios experimenting with AI are particularly focusing on fantasy films inspired by ancient mythology, a genre that remains popular in India. Rahul Regulapati, head of the AI studio at Collective, noted, “AI is reducing production costs to as low as one-fifth of the expenses associated with traditional filmmaking in mythology and fantasy genres.”
Faced with declining cinema attendance, Indian studios are increasingly turning to AI, in contrast to Hollywood’s more cautious approach due to concerns about job loss and union regulations. A recent analysis by consulting firm EY indicates that, in the medium term, AI could boost revenues for India’s media and entertainment sector by 10% while cutting costs by 15%.
