Gautam Adani Praises Whistling Woods International Students, Calls Them “Gems of Bharat”
Industrialist and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani recently addressed students at Whistling Woods International, Mumbai’s prestigious film and media institute founded by Subhash Ghai, where he lauded the young talents as the “Gems of Bharat.” Adani shared the stage with celebrated figures from the Indian film industry — Rajkumar Hirani, Kartik Aaryan, Jackie Shroff, and Mahaveer Jain — referring to them as “icons” who represent the power of India’s cinematic spirit.
Adani’s visit was marked by enthusiasm and admiration for the institution’s vibrant atmosphere and creative energy. Sharing pictures from the event on his social media platforms, he wrote, “Always energizing to be among the youth of our nation. And when that youth comes from @whistling_woods, the energy turns electric.” He thanked Subhash Ghai for building what he called a “powerhouse of creativity and passion”, adding that “every corner of your institute radiates inspiration.”
The industrialist’s message was clear — India’s youth, driven by passion and purpose, have the power to shape the nation’s global image through storytelling, innovation, and cultural pride.
Advocating for India’s Global Narrative Through Cinema
In his address, Adani emphasized the crucial role of cinema and storytelling in defining how India is viewed globally. Drawing attention to the soft power of films, he highlighted that cinema, when guided by authenticity, can serve as a powerful tool for shaping perceptions and strengthening India’s cultural identity.
He stated, “If we do not narrate who we are, others will rewrite who we were. That is why we must own our story — not with arrogance, but with authenticity; not as propaganda, but as purpose.”
Adani’s remarks underscored his belief that India must take charge of its narrative, especially at a time when the world’s perception of the country is often filtered through foreign perspectives. He cautioned against letting the West define Indian identity through its lens, arguing that films such as “Gandhi” and “Slumdog Millionaire” offered a narrow and sometimes distorted view of India.
Warning Against Western Portrayals of Indian Stories
The billionaire businessman criticized Western interpretations of Indian experiences, pointing out how some foreign films capitalize on India’s struggles for global recognition. He remarked, “Why must it take Richard Attenborough from across the oceans to tell us Indians the story of our Mahatma?”
Adani took particular issue with “Slumdog Millionaire”, calling it a “spectacle that sold Dharavi’s poverty for Western applause.” He said such portrayals turn Indian pain into entertainment for foreign audiences, winning awards abroad while failing to reflect India’s resilience, spirit, and progress.
In contrast, he admired how American cinema strategically uses storytelling to project national pride and influence. Referring to “Top Gun”, Adani noted that beyond its cinematic appeal, the film serves as “a brilliantly crafted narrative showcasing American might, courage, and identity.”
He emphasized that storytelling should not just entertain but also elevate the country’s image — blending creativity with a sense of national purpose.
A Call for Cultural Ownership in the Digital Era
Adani’s speech also touched upon the intersection of cinema, culture, and technology, particularly the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern storytelling. He urged India’s creative community to embrace emerging technologies to enhance its global influence.
He observed that while India’s voice is strong within its borders, it often remains muted internationally. “In that silence,” he said, “others have lifted the pen, sketching Bharat through their lenses tinted by bias and shaped by their convenience.”
By combining India’s creative strengths with new technologies and a deep-rooted sense of cultural pride, Adani believes the country can reclaim and redefine its global narrative — not as a follower, but as a storyteller leading the world stage.
His interaction at Whistling Woods International ended on an inspiring note, with Adani urging students to let their “Bharatiyata light the path to India’s greatness.”
