NCPA, NFAI showcase rare classics of Indian cinema

"The joint screening by NCPA (National Centre for the Performing Arts) and NFAI (National Film Archive of India), on the occasion of Cenetnary of Indian cinema is a rare treat for film lovers in Mumbai to watch and enjoy the silent and talkie films of the era, when film making started in the country," said noted filmmaker Shyam Benegal in Mumbai yesterday.
Speaking at the inaugural function of the NCPA-NFAI joint screening at NCPA, the Dadasaheb Phalke award winner and MP said in 1913, when Phalke made his film Raja Harishchandra, several people were trying to produce films, but Phalke's was the first feature film, so it is historically very important.He commended the efforts of NCPA and NFAI in bringing such programme to Mumbai.
The Director NFAI Prashant Pathrabe said,"The archives is very happy to bring this screening to Mumbai with NCPA, which it had a long relationship, having had a joint screening for more than 25 years till 1998." He said it is important that the archives have a platform for classic films in the city of Mumbai which the event has provided. Depending on the response the programme can be stepped up if needed. Mr Pathrabe said it is in the fitness of things that the package starts with the rare silent films in the NFAI collection such as Raja Harishchandra, Kaliya Mardan, Lanka Dahan and Krishna Janma.
Rare classics such as Soharb Modi’s Sikander, P.C.Barua’s’ Devdas, S.S.Vasan’s Chandralekha, Ritwik Ghatak’s Meghe Dhaka Tara, Satyajit Ray’s Apur Sansar, Damle and Fattelal’s Sant Tuakaram, Gurudutt’s Pyassa, Bimal Roy’s Madhumati, ACN Murthy and SK Bhgawan’s Sandhya Raga, Adoor Gopakrishnan’s Swayamvaram, Shyam Benegal’s Manthan will be showcased in the classic films in the series. Each of the films will be introduced by experts so its importance is understood. The screening is open to both public and NCPA members on last Friday of each month at 6.30pm at the NCPA’s Little theatre.
Deepa Gehlot, NCPA Head of Programs for Theatre and Films, said this is an effort to bring in gems from Indian films to the old and young NCPA members on the occasion of centenary year of Indian cinema.