Widely considered one of Bollywood's most iconic films, K Asif's Mughal-E-Azam makes a welcome return to the silver screen 45 years after its initial release. The first film in world cinema history to be colourised specifically for a theatrical release, it tells the story of 16th-century doomed lovers, rebellious Prince Salim (Dilip Kumar) and court dancer Anarkali (Madhubala). Offering first time viewers and die-hard fans a unique opportunity to re-visit a classic, this new version is a right royal treat.
A cross between Gone With The Wind and Ben-Hur, Mughal-E-Azam fuses a sweeping love story with epic battle scenes. As the only son of the mighty Emperor Akbar (Prithviraj Kapoor), Prince Salim is pandered to hand and foot. But when his father attempts to thwart his love for a commoner, Salim is forced to lead an army against his pa - a rather ill-advised decision which leads to a death sentence for Salim and entombment alive for Anarkali.
"LAVISH SONGS AND POIGNANT PERFORMANCES"
Featuring lavish songs and poignant performances by the legendary Dilip Kumar and beautiful Madhubala, Mughal-E-Azam took an incredible nine years to make (1951-1960). Fortunately, waiting another four decades for it to be restored in appealing candy-colours and high quality sound has certainly been worthwhile. Retaining all its original charm, Mughal-E-Azam's themes of love, loyalty and sacrifice remain as relevant as ever - a true testament to director K Asif's vision and commitment.
In Hindi with English subtitles.