Lucknow – The Rumi Foundation Lucknow Chapter, in collaboration with Poornima and Vivek Ladhani and Phoenix Palassio Mall, hosted a special Sunday evening screening of Muzaffar Ali’s acclaimed film Umrao Jaan at PVR Palassio Mall. The event drew a large gathering of admirers from the Awadh region.
Speaking on the occasion, filmmaker Muzaffar Ali described Umrao Jaan as one of the most poignant works of Indian cinema’s bygone era, a film that captures the soul of Awadh at its zenith when performing arts had no parallel. Released four decades ago, the movie remains the only authentic cinematic recreation of Lucknow’s glorious past, weaving poetry, music, dance, and costume into an unforgettable tapestry.
With its soul-stirring songs, evocative music, intricate Kathak choreography, and meticulously designed costumes, the film became a cultural and emotional landmark for the region. Rekha’s stellar portrayal of Umrao Jaan immortalised the character on screen, inspiring countless fans and boosting cultural tourism in Lucknow.
Adding to the celebration, a 240-page limited-edition, full-colour coffee table book Muzaffar Ali’s Umrao Jaan was launched. This rare work represents a unique journey — from a classic novel to a classic film, and now to an equally classic book that preserves its legacy in words. Featuring behind-the-scenes photographs, handwritten notes on essays by Rekha and other luminaries, the book captures the film’s grandeur, music, poetry, and refined elegance. For lovers of classic cinema, culture, and storytelling, it is a must-have before it goes out of print.
The book includes contributions from Berenice Elena, Kaveree Bamzai, Rekha, Sathya Saran, Shabana Azmi, Subhashini Ali, and Suvir Saran, making it a true collector’s treasure.
