Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Vivek Vaswani Grace Special Screening of Iconic Film Mahal

In a nostalgic celebration of Indian cinema, veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, producer Vivek Vaswani, and other esteemed personalities graced the special screening of the timeless classic “Mahal” (1949) at Regal Cinema in Mumbai. Directed by the legendary Kamal Amrohi, the film holds a special place in Bollywood’s history, making this screening an enchanting event for all film enthusiasts.

Filmmaker Kamal Amrohi’s directorial debut, “Mahal,” starring Ashok Kumar and Madhubala, is celebrated for its captivating narrative and brilliant performances. Written by Kamal Amrohi himself, the film’s musical brilliance is attributed to composer Khemchand Prakash.

During the special screening event, actor and producer Vivek Vaswani shared his admiration for the film, stating, “I have watched it eight times; it is an iconic film, and that is why I am here to watch it again. The experience of watching it in 35mm is different; I remember my first film was in 35mm – black and white. Now, everything is digital.”

When asked if he would consider making an experimental movie in 35mm today, Vivek Vaswani responded, “Making a film in 35mm now would be way too expensive. With technology advancements, everything has become digital, making filmmaking more accessible and cost-effective. We cannot afford the luxury of 35mm anymore.”

“Majestic Mahal,” touted as Bollywood’s first horror film, achieved unprecedented success and left an indelible impact on Indian gothic fiction. The film’s hauntingly beautiful storyline and captivating performances launched Madhubala and the legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar into super-stardom. Lata Mangeshkar lent her soulful voice to the film’s timeless soundtrack, which remains an eternal favorite among music aficionados.

The film’s production was helmed by Savak Vacha and Ashok Kumar under the banner of Bombay Talkies. “Mahal” is regarded as a timeless gem of Indian cinema and continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and artists.

The special screening of “Mahal” served as a tribute to the enduring legacy of classic Indian cinema and the timeless talent of the film’s cast and crew. As the event concluded, guests were left reminiscing about the golden era of Bollywood and celebrating the eternal magic of “Mahal.”