As part of the centenary celebrations of filmmaker Guru Dutt, a nationwide theatrical retrospective showcasing five of his most iconic works will be held from August 8 to 10. The initiative, led by Ultra Media & Entertainment Group in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) and the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), will bring the restored 4K versions of Dutt’s films to over 250 cinemas across the country.
Movies to be showcased
The retrospective will feature Pyaasa (1957), Aar Paar (1954), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), Mr. & Mrs. 55 (1955), and Baaz (1953), offering audiences a rare opportunity to revisit the filmmaker’s enduring legacy on the big screen. The films have been restored under the National Film Heritage Mission — a project of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to preserve India’s cinematic heritage.
“Guru Dutt’s films are timeless masterpieces that have influenced generations of filmmakers and audiences alike,” said Sushilkumar Agrawal, Managing Director and CEO of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, which holds the rights to the five films. “This initiative is not just a tribute to Guru Dutt’s legacy, but a cultural movement to bridge generations through cinema.”
Restored film retrospective
NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum noted that the restoration effort went beyond technical repair. “Restoring Guru Dutt’s films is about safeguarding a priceless legacy that defines the soul of Indian cinema,” he said, adding that the project ensures Dutt’s vision continues to resonate with audiences both now and in the future.
The screenings are expected to attract cinephiles, students of cinema, and a new generation of viewers encountering Dutt’s work in theatres for the first time. The retrospective is anchored by Pyaasa, widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s finest achievements.