In a cinematic revival that promises to transport audiences back to the opulent world of 19th-century Lucknow, the iconic film Umrao Jaan is making a grand return to theaters in stunning 4K quality. Directed by the visionary Muzaffar Ali and featuring the legendary Rekha in the titular role, this cinematic gem is set to captivate hearts once again starting June 27th.
The restoration of Umrao Jaan in 4K has been a labor of love, meticulously undertaken by NFDC-NFAI. The film’s producers, S.K.Jain & Sons and Integrated Films, have spared no effort in ensuring that this masterpiece retains its original charm while offering viewers a visually enhanced experience like never before.
As cinephiles eagerly await the re-release, Muzaffar Ali is unveiling a special limited-edition coffee table book that delves deep into the creation of Umrao Jaan. Packed with rare photographs, costume designs, poetry, and personal anecdotes from behind the scenes, this book is a treasure trove for fans and enthusiasts alike.
“Umrao Jaan was not just a film—it was a journey into the soul of a lost culture,”
shared Muzaffar Ali. Reflecting on the enduring appeal of the movie, he added,
“Through her pain, poetry, and grace, we tried to resurrect an era where love and longing found expression through verse.”
Rekha herself expressed profound sentiments about her connection to Umrao Jaan:
“Umrao Jaan is not just a film I acted in—she lives within me.”
She marveled at how timeless the film has proven to be over the years. “At that time,” Rekha reminisced fondly,
“none of us could have foreseen how deeply it would embed itself into Indian cinema’s soul.”
Niharika Bijli from PVR INOX aptly described Umrao Jaan as “cinematic poetry,” emphasizing its timeless narrative woven with themes of love and culture. The decision to restore this classic underlines its significance as an artistic marvel that continues to resonate across generations.
The musical genius of Khayyam and lyrical mastery of Shahryar further elevate Umrao Jaan’s emotional landscape. Songs like ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ and ‘In Aankhon Ki Masti’ are etched in memory, their melodies echoing through time.
Prakash Magdum from NFDC highlighted the extensive efforts put into restoring Umrao Jan for contemporary audiences. He shed light on challenges faced during restoration due to deteriorating original negatives but commended Muzaffar Ali’s supervision throughout the process.
With screenings scheduled across select PVR INOX cinemas nationwide starting June 27th as part of their Timeless Classics initiative; audiences can look forward to immersing themselves in this restored masterpiece soon.
As one iconic chapter in Indian cinema’s history unfolds again on screen with renewed brilliance—a tale rich with elegance and emotion invites new generations to discover its magic afresh.
