'umrao jaan' re-release brings rekha’s timeless grace back to the big screen - the statesman

Here’s some cinematic nostalgia you didn’t know you needed—Rekha’s unforgettable 1981 masterpiece ‘Umrao Jaan’ is making its way back to the big screen this June! The iconic film, popular

for its soul-stirring poetry, exquisite visuals, and Rekha’s luminous performance, has been digitally restored in 4K by NFDC and NFAI. Advertisement It’s all ready to mesmerize audiences

once more from June 27, with special screenings at select PVR INOX theatres across the country. Advertisement Directed by the legendary Muzaffar Ali, ‘Umrao Jaan’ is more than just a film.

It’s an ode to a bygone era of grace, culture, and poetic romance. Revolving in 19th-century Lucknow, the story follows the life of a courtesan-poetess, played with breathtaking depth and

elegance by Rekha, whose portrayal earned her the National Award. And the re-release isn’t just about the film. It’s a full celebration of its legacy. In a fitting tribute, director Muzaffar

Ali is also unveiling a limited-edition coffee table book that dives deep into the making of the film. ALSO READ: ‘PANCHAYAT’ SEASON 4: MAKERS REVEAL WHAT KEEPS THE MAGIC ALIVE Expect rare,

never-seen-before photographs, original costume sketches, calligraphy, poetry, and intimate anecdotes from the set. It’s a behind-the-scenes treasure trove for cinephiles and art lovers

alike. Reflecting on her journey with ‘Umrao Jaan’, Rekha shared an emotional note: “’Umrao Jaan’ is not just a film I acted in—she lives within me, breathes through me, even now. None of us

imagined, back then, how timeless it would become. Watching it return to the big screen feels like seeing an old love letter being read by a new generation. My heart is full.” Muzaffar Ali

echoed the sentiment, calling ‘Umrao Jaan’ a journey into a “forgotten tehzeeb” and praising Rekha’s performance as the soul of the film: “We tried to resurrect the elegance of a time where

love and longing were expressed in verse. Rekha didn’t just play Umrao—she ‘became’ her.” The film’s soundtrack, in composition of Khayyam with lyrics by Shahryar, still receives celebration

over four decades later. Songs like ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ and ‘In Aankhon Ki Masti Ke’ have become timeless melodies, etched in the hearts of generations. Advertisement