The Influence of Cinema on Our Childhood, Values and Memories

The Influence of Cinema on Our Childhood, Values and Memories

The films we watched during our childhood remain among the most unforgettable memories of our lives. Good cinema was not merely a source of entertainment; it was also a source of knowledge, education, life lessons, and cultural understanding. Films from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s taught us valuable lessons about family relationships, friendship, honesty, kindness, and social responsibility. Their stories touched our hearts and influenced our thinking. Cinema had a special ability to connect with children through emotions and memorable characters, helping them develop good values and grow into responsible citizens.

Indian cinema has given us countless memorable films in different languages. Malayalam cinema has produced wonderful films such as Chemmeen, Thoovanathumbikal, New Delhi, Nirakkoottu, and Pavithram. These films are remembered for their meaningful stories, outstanding performances, beautiful music, and emotional depth. Hindi cinema, too, has given us unforgettable classics such as Mera Saaya, Shree 420, Anand, Brahmachari, Mera Naam Joker, Guide, Saajan, Hum Aapke Hain Koun…! and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. These films touched millions of hearts through their songs, stories, and memorable characters. They also helped Indian cinema gain recognition among audiences across the world.

Kannada cinema deserves equal appreciation. Films such as Kasturi Nivasa, Bangarada Manushya and Naagarahaavu remain landmark works in the history of Kannada filmmaking. The 1980s also produced popular films such as Bandhana (1984) and Premaloka (1987), which became memorable box-office successes. These films are fondly remembered for their storytelling, performances, and cultural significance. The contributions of legendary actors, directors, writers, producers, and music composers have enriched Kannada cinema. Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada films, along with those made in other regional languages, have collectively made Indian cinema culturally rich and diverse.

The actors and actresses of earlier generations deserve special appreciation. They did not simply perform their roles; they brought their characters to life on screen and made audiences believe in them. Their expressions, dialogue delivery, dedication, and natural acting brought stories to life. Many legendary performers created characters that remain etched in our memories even today. Their exceptional talent and commitment helped shape and advance the Indian film industry. Their valuable contributions should always be remembered and appreciated.

I have watched many wonderful films in Kerala, Mangaluru, and Goa. Going to a theatre with friends and family, buying tickets, enjoying the songs and dialogues, and discussing the film afterwards were all special experiences. The producers, directors, actors, actresses, writers, lyricists, music directors, singers and technicians of earlier generations worked with great dedication and often made considerable sacrifices to create memorable films. Their collective efforts helped make cinema an important part of our cultural and social life.

Cinema has an important role to play in shaping society and taking it forward. Good films can create awareness, encourage positive thinking, promote human values, and help people understand their responsibilities towards society. If we want our society to progress in a healthy and positive direction, we need more meaningful films with compelling stories, talented performances, and inspiring messages. Filmmakers should continue to create works that entertain audiences while imparting valuable lessons to younger generations.

Good films have contributed significantly to our country’s cultural and social development. They have introduced us to different languages, traditions, festivals, and lifestyles. They have helped children and young people understand human relationships, family responsibilities, the importance of education, kindness, and mutual respect. Today, digital technology and social media have transformed our film-watching habits, but the experience of watching a good film in a cinema theatre remains special. We should continue to encourage meaningful filmmaking and support cinema theatres.

World cinema has demonstrated that language is never a barrier when films convey meaningful messages. A good story, sincere performances, and universal human values can touch the hearts of audiences across countries and cultures. Films made in different languages and regions can earn international recognition when they communicate powerful human emotions and positive ideas. Regardless of their language or country of origin, films with meaningful stories and universal values have the potential to attract audiences worldwide and earn a special place in their hearts.

I strongly believe that our childhood memories of cinema will always remain alive in our hearts. Even today, hearing an old film song or recalling a familiar dialogue takes us back to our younger days. We fondly remember the theatres, friends, family members, and happy moments associated with those films.

Cinema is much more than entertainment; it is closely connected with our education, knowledge, culture, emotions, and personal experiences. Good cinema has the power to touch hearts, teach valuable lessons, and inspire generations to become responsible citizens. The films we enjoyed during our childhood may belong to the past, but the values they taught us and the memories they created will remain with us forever.

About the Author

V. Rajesh Mohan Rao is a higher secondary commerce teacher from Dharmadam, Thalassery, Kerala, India. He writes about society, culture, language, and personal memories.

More Articles by the Author: