Unveiling the Forbidden: Exploration of the Uncanny ‘Other’ in Bollywood Films

Abstract

The paper explores how multiple personality disorder and schizophrenia are represented in selected Hindi films (Karthik Calling Karthik. Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Aparichit, Madhoshi) and how they affect the attitudes of the common people. Psychoanalytic theory is employed to analyze the concept of mental illness as depicted in these films. The protagonist in the films is a sufferer of either multiple personality disorder, schizophrenia, or mental illness, and these psychological states are central themes. After analyzing the films, it could be stated that Bollywood has moved beyond presenting religious rituals as a cure to mental illness. Psychiatrists gained importance in Hindi films, successfully representing some of the symptoms of multiple personality disorder and schizophrenia. However, the films just mention the treatment procedures and presented them as an easy method. Hence projecting the treatment of mental disorders in Hindi films remains less serious and fictional. Filmmakers should research and investigate the real patients, their families, and doctors before making films on mental illness.