The Hindi cinema classic ‘Umrao Jaan’, featuring Rekha, is all set to be screened in a special showcase at the 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), alongside other landmarks of Hindi cinema.
Restored Classics
Films like ‘Gaman’, ‘Rudaali’, ‘Muraliwala’, ‘Party’, ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Susman’, ‘Kireedam’, and ‘Musafir’ have been restored as part of the ongoing NFDC–NFAI restoration initiative in collaboration with Prasad. This special showcase is part of IFFI, currently underway in Goa. These titles represent some of the most powerful creative voices in Indian cinema, reflecting the eras, aesthetics, and social narratives that have shaped generations of viewers while continuing to inspire filmmakers and cinephiles worldwide.
From the lyrical grace and haunting performances of ‘Umrao Jaan’ to the profound humanism of ‘Gaman’, the sociopolitical depth of ‘Rudaali’, and the timeless poetry of ‘Pyaasa’, each film has been meticulously restored with an unwavering commitment to authenticity and technical excellence. The restoration process by Prasad’s teams involved digital methods, including color grading, final mastering, and quality control, ensuring every frame, texture, and sonic detail is preserved, remaining true to the filmmakers’ vision.
Commitment to Preservation
Abhishek Prasad, Director & CTO at Prasad, commented, “Restoring these films is both a responsibility and a privilege. Each title carries a piece of India’s cultural memory, embodying the craft, courage, and creativity of filmmakers who shaped our cinematic language. At Prasad, we are dedicated to preserving these stories with the respect and technical excellence they deserve. Witnessing them find new audiences at IFFI is the most meaningful recognition of our work.”
Festival Highlights
The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will run from November 20 to November 28, 2025, showcasing a dazzling array of cinematic art, culture, and technology. The festival features over 240 films from 81 countries, including 13 world premieres and various international and Asian debuts. Traditionally, the opening will see a grand parade along the Mandovi river.
This edition especially emphasizes innovation, presenting inflatable open-air theatres, a CinemAI hackathon, and a platform for emerging ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’. The closing ceremony will honor Rajinikanth for his remarkable 50-year legacy, celebrating both global and regional storytelling.