Indian Waves in Thailand: The Transformation from the Silver Screen to Digital TV

Abstract

          The first Indian wave phenomenon in Thailand took place from 1947 to 1977. The phenomenon reflects interesting social context of Indian diaspora in Thailand and Thai film-going culture. The main factor for the success of Indian films in Thailand is the familiarity of stories depicted in the films, the combination of emotions featured and the skills of the actors. However, over time, the economic factor and market competition played a part in this film-going culture. Indian imported movies could not cover their own expenses and went in decline. With technological changes in film viewing, particularly the introduction of digital TV in 2014, the new platform brings more alternative content. Contemporary Indian series are now imported to offer alternative choices for audience. This article discusses the development of the two Indian waves and explores factors which led to the interests in Indian films in each era.