It was a proud moment for India when Shyam Benegal’s Manthan became the sole Indian film in the Cannes Classics section. Featuring stalwarts like Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad, Smita Patil, and Amrish Puri in leading roles, this 1976 classic continues to withstand the test of time. In a recent conversation, Naseeruddin reflected on the enduring significance of the film and spoke about the current state of cinema in the country. He expressed his desire to take part in a project that address religious themes openly.
During an interview with Brut India, when Naseer was asked to select a contemporary social issue for a film, he responded, “I would say religion. I think courageous films should be made about this factor which seems to be on all our minds. This, to my mind, is one of the most harmful things that have happened to humanity, and that is why I consider a film that I did in Pakistan many years ago called Khuda Kay Liye, which was an important film, equally as important as Manthan.”
Discussing the current landscape of Indian cinema and whether it embraces unbridled expression, Naseeruddin remarked, “Some people are attempting to do that and gradually their numbers may multiply but it’s still not easy to make a direct statement and one has to couch one’s message in a palatable form.”
Naseeruddin Shah also commended filmmakers such as Nandita Das, Anubhav Sinha, and Anurag Kashyap for their contributions, citing films like Zwigato, Thappad among others.
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Manthan draws inspiration from the groundbreaking milk cooperative movement led by Verghese Kurien. Set against the backdrop of India’s White Revolution, the film not only achieved considerable success but also showcased the power of collective action, being entirely crowdfunded by 500,000 farmers who donated Rs 2 each. Manthan won the 1977 National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and National Film Award for Best Screenplay.
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