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Experience Guru Dutt’s Timeless Cinema on the Big Screen – A Treat for Gen Z and Cinephiles Alike from 8th -14th Aug Don’t Miss This Once-in-a-Lifetime Tribute to Guru Dutt — 6 Iconic Films. One Historic Weekend Mumbai, 8th August 2025: This August, a new generation of movie lovers will get a rare chance to witness the magic of one of Indian cinema’s greatest legends, Guru Dutt, on the big screen. As part of his 100th birth anniversary celebrations, Ultra Media in association with NFDC-NFAI, is bringing back his timeless works in a nationwide theatrical retrospective. From August 8th to 14th, audiences across 250 cinemas in India can experience his iconic films in 4K restored versions. The screenings will feature six masterpieces: Pyaasa, Aar Paar, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Mr. & Mrs. 55, and Baaz. These films, celebrated for their emotional depth and lyrical storytelling, shaped the golden era of Indian cinema and continue to influence filmmakers worldwide. For young viewers and film students, this is a rare opportunity to experience cinematic brilliance on the big screen. Ahead of the nationwide release, a special panel discussion and premiere of the 4K restored version of Pyaasa was held on August 6th at PVR Juhu. The session featured prominent voices of Indian cinema including Javed Akhtar, Hansal Mehta, R Balki, Sudhir Mishra, and Bhawana Somaaya alongwith RJ Rohini, who reflected on Guru Dutt’s enduring relevance. The evening concluded with the red-carpet screening attended by industry stalwarts and several actors. R Balki observed, “We live in an era where resilience is valued over sensitivity. Guru Dutt, to me, is the epitome of sensitivity. His films remind us why emotions matter.” Javed Akhtar added, “Guru Dutt was like the hero of a Shakespearean tragedy. He had a range—from light-hearted to deeply tragic—and every scene he created still lingers with us.” Hansal Mehta shared, “There was softness and gentleness in his craft. Be it his duets, his framing, or his portrayal of anger and love—everything had a poetic gentleness. That’s a big lesson for filmmakers today.” Sushilkumar Agrawal, MD & CEO, Ultra Media and Entertainment Group, said, “Guru Dutt’s films are timeless masterpieces that have influenced generations. This initiative is not only a tribute to his legacy but also a cultural movement to bridge generations through cinema.This is not just a film festival — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to relive the timeless genius of Guru Dutt on the big screen, the way his cinema was meant to be experienced". Prakash Magdum, Managing Director, NFDC, added, “Restoring Guru Dutt’s films is about safeguarding a priceless legacy. Under the National Film Heritage Mission, we ensure these classics continue to resonate with audiences, now and for generations to come.” The lineup includes Pyaasa (1957), a poetic masterpiece about a disillusioned poet confronting a materialistic society. Aar Paar (1954) is a stylish noir blending romance, suspense, and unforgettable music. Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), set against the backdrop of Lucknow’s Nawabi culture, is a poignant story of friendship and love, beautifully captured in Technicolor. Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) tells a haunting tale of love, addiction, and societal decay. Mr. & Mrs. 55 (1955) is a witty romantic comedy critiquing modernity and gender roles. Finally, Baaz (1953), Guru Dutt’s debut as a director, is a swashbuckling period drama set during colonial rule. This initiative highlights the growing revival of classic cinema, where restored films are finding new life in theatres and digital platforms. Affordable pricing ensures these masterpieces reach young audiences, allowing them to experience the sensitivity, elegance, and timeless storytelling that defined Guru Dutt’s era. For today’s filmmakers, these screenings serve as a masterclass in cinematic artistry. This centenary retrospective promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to revisit the poetic vision and emotional depth of Guru Dutt, a filmmaker whose work continues to inspire generations.