A Landmark Showcase at IFFI Goa
GOA – In a move that promises to be a highlight for cinephiles, a treasure trove of Indian cinematic history is being unveiled at this year’s International Film Festival of India (IFFI). NextMinuteNews has exclusively learned that Prasad Corporation, a global leader in film preservation, will showcase a special programme of 10 restored Indian classics, headlined by Muzaffar Ali’s timeless masterpiece, Umrao Jaan (1981).
The Return of a Masterpiece: ‘Umrao Jaan’ in 4K
For decades, the haunting gaze and graceful performance of Rekha as the eponymous courtesan have captivated audiences. Now, a new generation and longtime admirers can witness her legendary role, the film’s opulent visuals, and Khayyam’s soulful ghazals in breathtaking, digitally restored 4K clarity. The screening is a testament to the painstaking work of preserving our nation’s rich celluloid heritage and a highlight of the restored Indian classics at the Goa festival.
A Journey Through Indian Cinematic History: The Full List
Sources at Prasad Corporation have exclusively revealed to NextMinuteNews the full list of cinematic gems that have been given a new lease on life. This selection represents a breathtaking journey across the landscape of Indian cinema, spanning multiple languages and eras. Alongside Umrao Jaan, the slate includes:
- Pyaasa (1957, Hindi): Guru Dutt’s poignant and deeply philosophical saga of a struggling poet, considered one of the greatest films ever made.
- Sankarabharanam (1980, Telugu): K. Viswanath’s revolutionary musical drama that bridged the gap between classical and popular art.
- Nayakan (1987, Tamil): Mani Ratnam’s gritty gangster epic featuring a towering performance by Kamal Haasan, often cited on global ‘best of’ lists.
- Garm Hava (1973, Hindi): M.S. Sathyu’s heart-wrenching portrayal of a Muslim family’s dilemma during the Partition of India.
- Elippathayam (1982, Malayalam): Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s “The Rat-Trap,” a masterclass in minimalist storytelling and a landmark of Parallel Cinema.
- Jalsaghar (1958, Bengali): Satyajit Ray’s magnum opus on the decline of the feudal system, a visually stunning exploration of pride and tradition.
- Do Ankhen Barah Haath (1957, Hindi): V. Shantaram’s iconic social experiment film, celebrated for its humanistic message.
- Manthan (1976, Hindi): Shyam Benegal’s groundbreaking film, famously crowdfunded by 500,000 farmers to tell their story.
- Thaneer Thaneer (1981, Tamil): K. Balachander’s hard-hitting political satire on water scarcity and bureaucratic apathy.
The Art of Digital Film Restoration
The process of digital restoration is an art in itself. Technicians have spent thousands of hours on this collection, meticulously removing scratches, stabilizing colours, enhancing sound, and restoring each frame to its original glory. This digital archaeology rescues our cultural narratives from the ravages of time, ensuring they can be enjoyed for generations to come.
“This is not just about technology; it’s about preserving our soul,” a senior official from Prasad Corporation told NextMinuteNews. “These films are our shared memories, our cultural DNA. Bringing them back to the big screen in a condition better than how they were first released is our tribute to the masters who created them. Umrao Jaan’s beauty, Pyaasa’s angst, Nayakan’s fury—these emotions deserve to be experienced with the highest fidelity possible.”
The showcase at IFFI Goa provides the perfect platform, putting these restored classics on an international stage. For attendees, it is a rare opportunity to step back in time and witness the magic that defined Indian cinema. This is not just a screening; it is a cinematic pilgrimage.
