Restored ‘Umrao Jaan’ to premiere at UK Asian film festival in London

A newly restored version of Rekha-starrer movie ‘Umrao Jaan’ will have its European premiere at the Tongues on Fire UK Asian film festival (UKAFF) in London next week. The film stars Rekha as a courtesan and poet from Lunckow reportedly. 

As per reports, the film has been restored in 4K by the National Film Archive of India. It will be shown at the British Film Institute (BFI) IMAX, followed by a talk by director Muzaffar Ali. This screening is part of the festival’s theme, ‘Stories That Bind Us’, which focuses on South Asian stories and culture. The festival includes many films and events related to South Asian life and experiences.

Festival director Dr Pushpinder Chowdhry said the program celebrates strong storytelling and supports both new and experienced filmmakers. Now in its 28th year, the festival will also show the UK premiere of the Bengali film Baksho Bondi, directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi, and starring Tillotama Shome.

There will also be a live music tribute called ‘Magical Melodies’ to honor O P Nayyar, Dharmendra, and Asha Bhosle. Special screenings at the Kiln Theatre will show films about British South Asian life, including Never Had A chance by Jazz Bhalla. As per reports, creative director Samir Bhamra said the films show different aspects of life and help people understand each other better.

The festival will end on May 10 with the UKAFF awards, where Muzaffar Ali will receive the ‘Golden Flame Lifetime Achievement Award’.