How Bollywood Movies Influence Indians Study Abroad Dreams

How have Bollywood movies influenced the way Indians see studying abroad? For decades, Bollywood has shown audiences a world of foreign cities, international lifestyles, education, careers and opportunities. From London and New York to stories about ambition, family and life overseas, these movies may have played a role in shaping the study abroad dreams of Indian students.

In this video, we explore the connection between Bollywood, Indian students and the dream of studying abroad- and how different movies and Bollywood stars have portrayed life outside India.

We look at references from movies and popular Bollywood stories featuring stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Shatrughan Sinha, along with films such as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G), English Medium and others.

From the appeal of London and New York to the image of international success, Bollywood has often made life abroad look exciting, aspirational and within reach.

But how much does this influence the way Indian students think about studying abroad?
The reality is more complex. Studying abroad can offer global exposure, quality education, research opportunities and international career opportunities, but it also comes with tuition fees, living costs, part-time work, homesickness and other challenges that movies may not always show.

So, when you dream about studying abroad, are you choosing the right education and career path- or the right story?

00:00 The Dream of Studying Abroad
00:19 Where Did This Feeling Come From?
00:52 Why Every Indian Family Thinks About Abroad
01:19 When Bollywood Changed the Dream
02:31 How Bollywood Sold Us the Abroad Dream
03:23 Did Bollywood Actually Cause It?
04:01 The Uncomfortable Truth About Studying Abroad
04:28 The Reality Bollywood Doesn't Show
04:57 Don't Let Bollywood Pick Your University
05:05 Find the Right University With GradRight

If you're planning to study abroad from India, GradRight helps you explore universities and programs based on your goals, budget and career aspirations.

What Bollywood movie made you dream about life abroad? Tell us in the comments.

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