Kollywood refers to the Tamil film industry based in Chennai, India. The word is a blend of "Kodambakkam," the neighbourhood where many film studios are located, and Hollywood. The pronunciation of Kollywood is /kɒliwʊd/, with stress on the first syllable. The "k" is pronounced as in "kite," followed by a long "o" sound, and a short "i" vowel. The last syllable is pronounced with the "w" sound and a short "u" vowel, followed by a voiced "d" sound.
Kollywood is a term used to refer to the film industry based in the Tamil Nadu state of India, primarily centered in the city of Chennai. The word "Kollywood" is a blend of "Kodambakkam," a neighborhood in Chennai where many film studios are located, and "Hollywood," the iconic American film industry. It is often considered the second-largest film industry in India, after Bollywood.
Kollywood specializes in the production of Tamil-language films, which are renowned for their unique storytelling techniques, vibrant song and dance sequences, and melodramatic elements. These films hold great cultural significance in Tamil Nadu and among the Tamil diaspora worldwide. Kollywood films typically revolve around themes of love, family relationships, and social issues, often incorporating elements of action, comedy, and drama.
Kollywood has made a significant impact on the Indian film industry, with several skilled actors, directors, and technicians emerging from this region. The industry has also garnered attention and appreciation internationally, with Kollywood films being screened in various film festivals around the world. The success of Kollywood has led to the establishment of numerous cinema halls and production companies, contributing to the growth and development of the film industry in Tamil Nadu.
Overall, Kollywood serves as a vital cultural and entertainment hub, promoting the rich Tamil language and culture through its captivating and diverse film productions.
The word "Kollywood" is a portmanteau of the words "Kodambakkam" and "Hollywood". Kodambakkam is a neighborhood located in Chennai (formerly known as Madras), the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is considered the epicenter of the Tamil film industry, often referred to as Kollywood. The term was coined to draw a parallel between the significant role that the city of Hollywood plays in the American film industry and the influence of Kodambakkam on the Tamil film industry.