In a touching tribute to the legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal, Doordarshan has announced a special screening of his classic film Manthan. This event, showcasing a beautifully restored 4K version of the 1976 film, is set to take place on January 1, 2025, at 8:00 PM. Manthan holds a special place in Indian cinema and honors the contributions of a visionary whose work continues to inspire many.
The restored version of Manthan was meticulously prepared by the Film Heritage Foundation and debuted at the Cannes Classic section in 2024. The film is inspired by Dr. Verghese Kurien’s White Revolution and highlights the importance of cooperative efforts in the dairy industry. The restoration was supported by the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation, known as Amul, whose farmers initially backed the film’s production. The Film Heritage Foundation has confirmed the screening date via a post on their social media, making this occasion a poignant salute to Benegal’s enduring legacy.
Manthan, which translates to "Churning" in English, is a powerful narrative focused on India’s dairy revolution. Released in 1976, the film follows a young veterinary doctor, portrayed by Girish Karnad, as he guides rural farmers to form a cooperative to challenge oppressive systems. The story is based on the real-life White Revolution, which turned India into a global leader in milk production. Notably, the film credits the support of 500,000 farmers from Gujarat, each contributing Rs 2 to finance the project, a testament to community solidarity and empowerment.
Shyam Benegal, who passed away on December 23, 2024, at the age of 90, was a pioneering figure in Indian parallel cinema. His diverse body of work spanned over five decades, beginning with his debut film Ankur in 1974. Movies like Nishant, Manthan, and Bhumika showcased his unique storytelling ability and focus on socially relevant themes. His memorial service in Mumbai was attended by many notable personalities from the film fraternity, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for his contributions to the industry.
As audiences prepare to experience the timeless story of Manthan once again, the screening serves as a reminder of the impact Shyam Benegal had on Indian cinema and the importance of collaboration and community in driving change.
