Mumbai, Nov 20 (NationPress) The iconic Hindi film ‘Umrao Jaan’, featuring the legendary Rekha, is poised to be showcased at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), alongside a selection of other seminal works from Hindi cinema.

Films like ‘Gaman’, ‘Rudaali’, ‘Muraliwala’, ‘Party’, ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Susman’, ‘Kireedam’, and ‘Musafir’ will also be part of this special presentation. These classics have undergone restoration through the ongoing NFDC–NFAI initiative, in partnership with Prasad, for IFFI, which is currently taking place in Goa. These films encapsulate some of the most profound creative expressions of Indian cinema, each standing as a reflection of the cultural eras, aesthetics, and societal narratives that have shaped generations of audiences and continue to influence filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts globally.

From the poetic elegance and captivating performances of ‘Umrao Jaan’, to the poignant humanism depicted in ‘Gaman’, the sociopolitical depth of ‘Rudaali’, and the timeless lyricism of ‘Pyaasa’, all films have been restored with a steadfast dedication to authenticity and technical prowess. The restoration team at Prasad utilized digital restoration techniques, color grading, and final mastering processes to ensure that every frame, texture, and sound detail is retained with utmost fidelity while honoring the original vision of the filmmakers.

According to Abhishek Prasad, Director & CTO at Prasad, “Restoring these films is not just a duty but also an honor. Each film embodies a fragment of India’s cultural heritage, showcasing the skill, bravery, and creativity of the filmmakers who have shaped our cinematic discourse. At Prasad, we are devoted to preserving these narratives with the respect and technical quality they rightfully deserve. Witnessing them reach new audiences at IFFI is the most significant acknowledgment of our efforts.”

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will take place from November 20 to November 28, 2025, serving as a spectacular gathering of cinematic artistry, culture, and technology. This year’s festival will feature over 240 films from 81 countries, including 13 world premieres and various international and Asian debuts. The festival will commence with a grand parade along the Mandovi river, breaking away from tradition.

This edition emphasizes innovation with inflatable open-air theaters, a CinemAI hackathon, and a platform for nurturing the ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’. The closing ceremony will pay tribute to Rajinikanth for his remarkable 50-year legacy, celebrating both global and regional storytelling.