The eternal charm of the cinematic gem Umrao Jaan took center stage at the Koshala Literature Festival in Lucknow, where filmmaker Muzaffar Ali shared heartfelt insights about his timeless creation. The 1981 masterpiece, based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa's 1899 Urdu novel 'Umrao Jaan Ada,' continues to receive overwhelming admiration from audiences of all ages.
A Film That Breathes Art
During the 'Celebrating Umrao Jaan' session on the festival's third day, Ali expressed profound emotional connection to his work. "Some things remain alive forever, and one such thing is the film Umrao Jaan," the renowned filmmaker stated. He described the movie as his only child, emphasizing that just as a single child receives undivided attention and care, Umrao Jaan has been his sole cinematic offspring that he nurtured with complete devotion.
Ali, accompanied by his wife Meera and author Alka Pande, revealed that Umrao Jaan represents more than just a film in his life. "Umrao Jaan is a transgenerational film, cherished by all generations. This is art; art is what we breathe, and unless you breathe art in various ways, you cannot truly understand its essence," he reflected passionately.
The Navras of Human Experience
The discussion highlighted how the film beautifully encapsulates the Navras of life - the nine principal emotions that encompass the complete spectrum of human experience. These rasas include:
- Love and beauty
- Laughter and sorrow
- Anger and courage
- Fear and disgust
- Wonder and peace
This comprehensive emotional journey is what makes Umrao Jaan a work that resonates with viewers across different eras and backgrounds. The film's ability to portray these fundamental human emotions contributes significantly to its enduring appeal.
Lucknow: The Birthplace of Artistic Inspiration
Ali shared a poignant connection between his artistic journey and the city of Lucknow, revealing "I began breathing art in Lucknow." This statement underscores the deep cultural roots that influenced the creation of Umrao Jaan and explains why the film captures the essence of Lucknow's sophisticated culture so authentically.
The filmmaker emphasized that once you start recognizing art in your life, you begin to see it everywhere - "at home, outside, in different cities, and across the world." This philosophical approach to art explains why Umrao Jaan has maintained its vibrancy and allure for over four decades, transcending generations while remaining culturally relevant.
The session at the Koshala Literature Festival served as a powerful testament to how true artistic creations like Umrao Jaan defy the constraints of time, continuing to inspire and move audiences with the same intensity as when they were first created.
