The Power of Visual Politics: Examining the Impact of 'The Kashmir Files' on Political Discourse in India

Abstract

This thesis investigates the nexus of visual politics, narrative formation, and political communication in modern Indian politics, focusing on the role of the 2022 film The Kashmir Files. The study looks into how the Modi government has used visual media, notably Bollywood, to affect public opinion of the repeal of Article 370 and rally support for its broader nationalist goal. Using the frameworks of political communication theory and narrative building, this paper examines how The Kashmir Files has been used for political maneuvering, impacting national discourse on Kashmir. This thesis examines secondary data sources such as YouTube reviews, online interviews, and the film's narrative structure to identify how the film has been presented to promote a specific political narrative. It is important to note that the study was ongoing, with the need for continuous adaptation of findings in light of the evolving political context, notably the 2024 Indian elections. The data shows that The Kashmir Files is not merely a platform for reliving historical events but also a strategic tool in the BJP's political resource, aiming at cementing voter support and marginalizing dissent. This study contributes to the more extensive discussion of the use of visual media in political propaganda and the manipulation of public in India by examining the film's depiction of the Kashmiri Pandit migration.