What we see, what we endure: representation of physical diseases in Bangladeshi cinema

Abstract

This thesis examines how physical diseases are represented in selected Bangladeshi films and whether these representations reflect real-world disease prevalence or storytelling demands. Using qualitative content and thematic analysis of eight films covering HIV/AIDS, cancer, COVID-19, and fever, the study explores differences based on urban-rural settings, gender, social class, affluence, and religion. The findings show that cinematic disease representations are shaped more by stigma, drama, social conflict, and cultural context than by actual disease prevalence. The study also finds greater emphasis on urban healthcare, stronger social judgment toward female patients, and significant influence of social class on access to treatment and survival.