Keywords: Shyam Benegal, Manthan, Cannes Film Festival, 4K restoration, agrarian economy, dairy movement, parallel cinema, theatrical re-release
Restored by the Film Heritage Foundation using 4K technology, Shyam Benegal’s seminal film ‘Manthan’ has made a significant impact at the Cannes Film Festival. As the film prepares for its theatrical re-release, it offers a timely reflection on India’s agrarian economy and the continuing evolution of its democratic processes.
‘Manthan,’ a fictionalized account of the origins of India’s dairy movement, masterfully intertwines social drama with poignant commentary on the challenging process of deepening democracy. Nearly five decades after its initial release, the film’s themes of caste and class struggles remain relevant in today’s participatory democratic landscape, even as India enters the much-publicized ‘Amrit Kaal’ of its post-colonial journey.
Emerging during a time when parallel cinema sought to bridge the gap between art and commercial films, Benegal’s direction in ‘Manthan’ avoids the pitfalls of false optimism and moralizing. Instead, he introduces an outsider into the harsh realities of rural life, exploring the spirit, ignorance, and entrepreneurial drive of village inhabitants.
The film’s restoration and subsequent screening at Cannes highlight its enduring legacy and relevance. As audiences prepare to revisit ‘Manthan’ in theaters, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of India’s socio-economic fabric and the ongoing efforts to democratize and empower its agrarian communities.
‘Manthan’ not only captures a crucial chapter in India’s dairy revolution but also resonates with contemporary issues of social equity and grassroots activism. Its re-release promises to inspire new discussions and reflections on the progress and challenges within India’s rural landscapes and democratic institutions.
