The statement highlights a perceived issue within the Bollywood film industry, where corruption and inefficiency make it difficult to generate substantial revenue from movie sales alone. As a result, companies resort to selling merchandise associated with the stars, such as shoes an actress has worn, to augment their income.
On a deeper level, this quote critiques not only the economic challenges faced by the entertainment sector but also the broader cultural dynamics surrounding celebrity and consumerism. It suggests that in an industry where financial gains from traditional avenues are limited due to systemic issues, the allure of celebrities can be exploited for commercial purposes. The humorously exaggerated idea of selling actresses themselves implies a commentary on the commodification of fame and the lengths to which people will go to capitalize on it. This perspective underscores how celebrity culture can become intertwined with economic exploitation.
Bruce Sterling is a renowned American author known for his work in science fiction, particularly within the cyberpunk genre. His insights often blend futuristic visions with astute observations about contemporary societal trends, making him well-suited to comment on the intersection of technology and cultural phenomena like those found in Bollywood's commercial practices.