The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is showcasing India’s rich cinematic legacy in the “Restored Classics” section. It highlights the tireless efforts of the NFDC-National Film Archive of India (NFDC-NFAI), under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) to preserve and celebrate India’s unparalleled film heritage. Cinephiles are having the choice to experience the magic of restored classics and celebrate the enduring legacy of Indian cinema in the film festival this year.
Some of the meticulously restored masterpieces from across the country screened under this section are as follows:
Silent Cinema
• Kaliya Mardan (1919) – Directed by Dadasaheb Phalke, this pioneering work has undergone a 4K restoration using the surviving 35mm dupe negative. Accompanied by live music from Satyaki Banerjee and team, the screening highlights the innovative special effects and storytelling of Phalke’s cinematic genius.
Telugu Cinema
Devadasu (1953) This adaptation of the Bengali classic ‘Devdas’, featuring Akkineni Nageswara Rao as the tragic hero, marks the centenary celebrations of the matinee idol ANR. The restoration pays tribute to his indelible influence on Indian cinema.
Hindi Cinema
• Awara (1951) Restored from a 35mm dupe negative, this timeless classic directed by Raj Kapoor explores themes of wealth, power, and destiny. The restoration is made possible by the Kapoor family’s invaluable contribution of film materials to NFDC-NFAI.
Hum Dono (1961) Set against the backdrop of World War II, this Dev Anand classic, featuring a double role and an iconic soundtrack by Jaidev, honours the birth centenary of Mohammed Rafi.
Saat Hindustani (1969) This stirring tale of resistance against Portuguese rule in Goa, featuring a young Amitabh Bachchan, is a testament to the film’s enduring legacy. Restored from a 35mm camera negative, it celebrates the spirit of unity and patriotism.
Bengali Cinema
Harmonium (1976) Directed by the legendary Tapan Sinha, this classic will be showcased as part of the centenary celebrations of the filmmaker. Restored from the 35mm Original Camera Negative preserved by the West Bengal State Film Archive, this poignant tale of a harmonium’s tragic journey features music composed by Sinha himself.
Seemabaddha (1971) A part of Satyajit Ray’s iconic Calcutta Trilogy, Seemabaddha explores corporate ruthlessness through the life of an ambitious sales manager. The restoration includes a previously unavailable one-minute colour sequence showcasing a Peter fan advertisement. The film’s restoration continues the ongoing effort to revive the entire Calcutta Trilogy, following the restoration of Pratidwandi in 2022.
A Milestone in Preservation
The restoration of these cinematic gems was undertaken by over 300 dedicated professionals using advanced 4K scanning, colour correction, and sound restoration techniques. Missing frames, scratches, and other damages were meticulously repaired to ensure the films retain their original essence while meeting modern cinema standards.
These unprecedented efforts by NFDC-NFAI, under the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, mark a major milestone in preserving India’s cinematic heritage. By sourcing the best-preserved film elements, NFDC-NFAI has ensured the highest quality restoration, bringing these masterpieces back to life for future generations.
The screening of these restored classics in 55th IFFI is also an endeavour to honour the pioneers and storytellers whose works continue to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.
