One of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films, Umrao Jaan, starring the legendary Rekha, is set to captivate audiences once again as it returns to theatres on June 27, beautifully restored in 4K resolution.
This 1981 cinematic masterpiece has undergone a meticulous restoration led by the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The effort breathes new life into the poetic epic, originally set in 19th-century Awadh, allowing both longtime fans and new cinephiles to experience the film’s timeless artistry and cultural richness on the big screen.
Directed by Muzaffar Ali, Umrao Jaan is widely regarded as a jewel of Indian cinema, known for its evocative storytelling, mesmerizing music, and an authentic portrayal of Awadhi culture. Produced by SK Jain & Sons and Integrated Films, the movie is remembered primarily for Rekha’s iconic performance as the courtesan-poet Umrao Jaan—a role that earned her the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actress.
The re-release announcement came via PVR Inox’s Instagram, where the theatre chain praised the film as “a story of elegance, love, and timeless music.” The caption read, “Revisit Umrao Jaan in stunning 4K – a cinematic jewel restored, reimagined, and reborn with our Curated Shows. #UmraoJaan re-releasing at PVR INOX on June 27!”
In a special addition to the film’s revival, Muzaffar Ali will unveil a limited-edition coffee table book, featuring rare behind-the-scenes content. The book includes never-before-seen photographs, original costume sketches, exquisite calligraphy, poetry, and personal anecdotes from the film’s set—an exclusive treasure for enthusiasts of movie characters and Indian cinematic heritage.
Reflecting on the restoration, Ali shared, “Umrao Jaan was not just a film—it was a journey into the soul of a lost culture, a forgotten tehzeeb. Through her pain, poetry, and grace, we sought to resurrect the elegance of an era where love and longing spoke in verse. Rekha lived Umrao Jaan and truly immortalized it. I am thrilled that the film is back on the big screen for a new generation to discover a time and culture that remain integral to our identity.”
The film’s distinguished ensemble cast also features Farooq Shaikh as Nawab Sultan, alongside Naseeruddin Shah, Raj Babbar, Shaukat Kaifi, Dina Pathak, and Gajanan Jagirdar. Notably, the movie marked the debut of the late Farrukh Jaffar, who portrayed Umrao’s mother, adding yet another layer of cinematic history to this classic.
For fans eager to explore more about the movie genre of timeless Indian classics and acclaimed movie reviews, Umrao Jaan’s restored re-release is a must-watch cinematic event this summer.
