Guru Dutt’s 100th Birth Anniversary: Pyaasa, Aar Paar & Three Other Classics to Re-Release in Theaters from August 8-10, 2025
Mumbai, 7 August, 2025 – In a grand celebration of Indian cinema’s legendary filmmaker and actor Guru Dutt’s 100th birth anniversary, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation-National Film Archive of India (NFDC-NFAI), is set to bring five of his iconic films back to theaters across India. From August 8 to 10, 2025, over 250 cinemas nationwide will screen restored 4K versions of Pyaasa (1957), Aar Paar (1954), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), Mr. & Mrs. 55 (1955), and Baaz (1953). This historic retrospective, coinciding with Guru Dutt’s centenary, aims to reintroduce his timeless masterpieces to modern audiences, including film students, cinephiles, and younger generations yet to experience his cinematic brilliance on the big screen.
A Cinematic Legacy Restored
Guru Dutt, born on July 9, 1925, is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most influential auteurs, known for his poetic storytelling, innovative cinematography, and profound exploration of human emotions. His films, blending artistry with commercial appeal, have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, inspiring filmmakers and audiences for decades. The re-release of these five classics, meticulously restored in 4K under the National Film Heritage Mission—an initiative by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India—offers a rare opportunity to witness his genius in a format that enhances their visual and emotional impact.
Sushilkumar Agrawal, MD & CEO of Ultra Media and Entertainment Group, which holds the rights to these films, emphasized the cultural significance of the initiative. “Guru Dutt’s films are timeless masterpieces that have influenced generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. This initiative is not just a tribute to Guru Dutt’s legacy, but also a significant cultural movement to bridge generations through cinema. We are honored to present his classics in restored versions so that both devoted fans and new audiences can relive the magic on the big screen,” Agrawal said.
The Line-Up: Five Timeless Classics
The retrospective features a carefully curated selection of Guru Dutt’s most celebrated works, each showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker, actor, and producer:
- Pyaasa (1957)
Often hailed as one of India’s greatest films, Pyaasa is a poignant tale of a struggling poet, Vijay (played by Guru Dutt), whose artistic integrity clashes with a materialistic society. Directed by Guru Dutt and featuring soul-stirring music by S.D. Burman and lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi, the film’s themes of love, betrayal, and societal neglect remain profoundly relevant. Its iconic songs, such as “Yeh Duniya Agar Mil Bhi Jaye” and “Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par,” continue to resonate with audiences. - Aar Paar (1954)
A noir-infused crime drama with a romantic twist, Aar Paar follows the story of a taxi driver, Kalu (Guru Dutt), caught between love and a life of crime. Known for its gripping narrative and memorable music by O.P. Nayyar, including hits like “Babuji Dheere Chalna,” the film showcases Guru Dutt’s ability to blend commercial entertainment with stylistic flair. - Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960)
A romantic drama set in Lucknow’s Muslim milieu, Chaudhvin Ka Chand is a visual and emotional masterpiece. Directed by M. Sadiq and produced by Guru Dutt, the film features him as Aslam, a man torn between love and duty. With Ravi’s evocative music and Shakeel Badayuni’s poetic lyrics, songs like “Chaudhvin Ka Chand Ho” remain eternal favorites. - Mr. & Mrs. 55 (1955)
A satirical romantic comedy, Mr. & Mrs. 55 is a delightful exploration of love and societal norms. Directed by and starring Guru Dutt alongside Madhubala, the film follows a cartoonist and a wealthy heiress navigating a marriage of convenience. O.P. Nayyar’s chart-topping soundtrack, including “Thandi Hawa Kali Ghata” and “Udhar Tum Haseen Ho,” adds to its charm. - Baaz (1953)
Guru Dutt’s directorial debut, Baaz is a swashbuckling period drama set in 16th-century India, centered on a pirate’s rebellion against Portuguese colonial rule. Starring Guru Dutt and Geeta Bali, the film showcases his early experimentation with narrative and visual storytelling, laying the foundation for his later masterpieces.
A Cultural Movement
The restoration of these films is part of the National Film Heritage Mission, which aims to preserve and digitize India’s cinematic treasures. Prakash Magdum, Managing Director of NFDC, highlighted the importance of this effort: “Restoring Guru Dutt’s films goes far beyond reviving old reels. It’s about safeguarding a priceless legacy that defines the soul of Indian cinema. These films are restored as part of the National Film Heritage Mission, ensuring that future generations can experience the artistry of Guru Dutt in its full glory.”
The 4K restoration process has revitalized these classics, enhancing their visual clarity and sound quality while preserving the essence of Guru Dutt’s vision. The re-release is expected to attract a diverse audience, from long-time admirers to younger viewers discovering his work for the first time.
A Nationwide Celebration
The retrospective will run for three days, from August 8 to 10, 2025, across major cities and towns in India, with screenings planned in over 250 theaters, including multiplexes and single-screen cinemas. The initiative aims to make Guru Dutt’s films accessible to a wide audience, with special screenings organized for film students and cinephile communities to encourage discussions about his contributions to Indian cinema.
This event not only honors Guru Dutt’s legacy but also underscores the enduring relevance of his films. His ability to weave universal themes of love, sacrifice, and societal critique into compelling narratives continues to captivate audiences, making this re-release a significant moment in Indian cinema’s history.
How to Experience the Magic
Tickets for the screenings will be available through major ticketing platforms and at participating theater box offices starting July 25, 2025. Film enthusiasts are encouraged to book early, as the limited three-day run is expected to draw significant interest. For more details on screening locations and schedules, visit the official websites of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group or NFDC-NFAI.
As India celebrates Guru Dutt’s 100th birth anniversary, this theatrical retrospective is a fitting tribute to a visionary whose films continue to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Pyaasa, Aar Paar, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Mr. & Mrs. 55, and Baaz on the big screen, where their timeless beauty truly belongs.
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