Director Shekhar Kapur entered a debate about artificial intelligence adoption in Indian cinema after responding to criticism about established stars avoiding public association with the technology. A post on X described Bollywood figures privately exploring AI investments while declining festival appearances, prompting Kapur to address what he views as inevitable industry transformation.
The Padma Bhushan recipient suggested that top performers achieved their status through systems facing obsolescence. American studios maintain dominance by creating cost barriers that exclude competitors, but AI promises more accessible production methods. Kapur questioned why those benefiting from current hierarchies would embrace changes threatening their positions.
The filmmaker distinguished AI from visual effects tools, characterizing it as fundamentally different rather than supplementary technology. His comments followed observations about prominent industry members building private AI facilities while requesting private introductions to technical specialists. The original complaint highlighted contradictions between public reluctance and private interest as major production houses invest heavily in emerging capabilities.
The Padma Bhushan recipient suggested that top performers achieved their status through systems facing obsolescence. American studios maintain dominance by creating cost barriers that exclude competitors, but AI promises more accessible production methods. Kapur questioned why those benefiting from current hierarchies would embrace changes threatening their positions.
The filmmaker distinguished AI from visual effects tools, characterizing it as fundamentally different rather than supplementary technology. His comments followed observations about prominent industry members building private AI facilities while requesting private introductions to technical specialists. The original complaint highlighted contradictions between public reluctance and private interest as major production houses invest heavily in emerging capabilities.
