Embedded Economies: Caste and Capital in Tamil Film Production

Abstract

Cinema as an object of creativity has long been a focus of study in various disciplines. A sociological perspective necessitates an analysis of the economic structures, social identities and production relations that shape the industry. This study explores the social constitution of the Tamil film economy by interrogating how economic actions are embedded within larger socio-political structures. Specifically, it examines the role of social identity as a determinant of industry establishment and continuity. The critical, but less explored, dimension of cinema is the economics of its production.  This study raises key questions, how did Dalit filmmakers transition from independent productions to mainstream cinema? How did the entry of Dalits as ‘Owners of Capital’ change the discourse of Tamil cinema? These inquiries necessitate an analysis of caste-based economic structures that have systematically marginalized Dalits within the film industry. Grounded in a classical Marxist framework, this study further examines the extent to which the mode of production and relations of production influence the thematic and narrative content of Tamil cinema. By analyzing these dimensions, the paper provides insights into how social identities change industry dynamics, affecting both representation and access to creative control. In doing so, it contributes to comprehensive discussions on caste, political economy and cultural production in contemporary Indian cinema.