Making the nation manly: The case of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) and India's search for regional dominance in an era of neo-liberal globalization

Abstract

Abstract This article unpacks a particular gendered vision of nation that we term muscular nationalism. Briefly put, muscular nationalism is an intersection of a specific vision of masculinity with the political doctrine of nationalism. This idea of nation is animated by an idea of manhood associated with martial prowess, muscular strength and toughness. A particular interpretation of muscular nationalism has unfolded in India within a cultural milieu shaped by an assertive self-confidence fuelled by 'liberalization', a process by which India has been integrated into the global political economy, coupled with the prominence of Hindu nationalist politics. India's prolific commercial film industry centred in Mumbai has used images of manhood to express and valorize these cultural changes. We use the popular and critically acclaimed film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013), directed by Rakesh Omprakash Mehra, to illustrate how athleticism and India's desire for regional dominance in South Asia shape muscular nationalism.