FHF Celebrates Late Director Raj Khosla’s 100th Birth Anniversary
The Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) on May 31 celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary filmmaker Raj Khosla in a grand manner. The day-long event, titled “Raj Khosla 100–Bambai Ka Babu”, was a tribute to the iconic director’s remarkable career and his contribution to Indian cinema.
The event featured special screenings of three of Khosla’s iconic films: “CID” (1956), “Bambai Ka Babu” (1960), and “Mera Gaon Mera Desh” (1971). These films have been restored to their original glory, allowing the audience to experience the magic of Khosla’s storytelling and direction once again.
The highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring some of the biggest names in the Indian film industry. Veteran actress Asha Parekh, who has worked with Khosla in several films, was part of the panel. She shared some fascinating anecdotes about her experiences working with the director and spoke about his passion for storytelling.
Mahesh Bhatt, another renowned filmmaker, was also part of the panel. He spoke about Khosla’s influence on his own work and how the late director’s films had inspired him to explore new themes and styles in his own films.
The panel discussion was moderated by the acclaimed film critic and historian, Rajeev Masand. He expertly guided the conversation, asking insightful questions that brought out the best from the panellists.
Khosla’s films were known for their unique blend of social commentary, drama, and entertainment. His movies often tackled complex issues like social inequality, corruption, and personal betrayal, but he always managed to balance these serious themes with a healthy dose of humor and wit.
“CID” (1956) is one of Khosla’s most iconic films. Starring Dev Anand and Shakila, the film is a crime thriller that explores the world of detectives and crime-solving. The film’s success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and Khosla’s masterful direction.
“Bambai Ka Babu” (1960) is another notable film in Khosla’s repertoire. Starring Sunil Dutt and Nutan, the film is a romantic drama that explores the complexities of love and relationships. The film’s memorable songs and Khosla’s sensitive direction make it a must-watch for any Bollywood fan.
“Mera Gaon Mera Desh” (1971) is a social drama that tackles themes of poverty, inequality, and social change. The film stars Dharmendra and Asha Parekh, and is a powerful commentary on the state of rural India at the time.
Throughout the event, the audience was treated to rare archival footage and behind-the-scenes stories about Khosla’s films. The panel discussion was followed by a Q&A session, where the audience had the opportunity to ask questions and share their own experiences with Khosla’s films.
The Film Heritage Foundation’s celebration of Raj Khosla’s 100th birth anniversary is a testament to the importance of preserving India’s cinematic heritage. By restoring and showcasing classic films like “CID”, “Bambai Ka Babu”, and “Mera Gaon Mera Desh”, the FHF is ensuring that these iconic films continue to entertain and inspire new generations of film enthusiasts.
As the event came to a close, it was clear that Raj Khosla’s legacy will continue to be celebrated and revered for years to come. His films may have been made decades ago, but they remain just as relevant and entertaining today.
