Films Division of India

A Khilonewala (Toy seller) comes to sell beautiful hand-crafted toys to children when religious fanaticism turns the atmosphere upside down

An experimental film by Pramod Pati that presents to us a sensory collage of icons, symbols and the every-day. Exploring the mood and ambitions of youth at the time, the film eschews narrative and commentary to present the excitement and expectations of its participants.

Divided into three parts — The Awakening, The Struggle, and Freedom — this is a biographical film on Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India. Relying on Nehru's writings and speeches, the film traces the evolution of Nehru from his birth through his life. It also deals with the effect of history on Nehru and in turn his impact on the world.

An impressionistic biographical look at Siddheshwari Devi (1908–1977), the classical Indian singer whose voice was appreciated by the maharajas and public alike.

Documentary on director Satyajit Ray, featuring an extensive interview and clips from his films, and location shooting of his film "The Home and the World."

A documentary on eminent film director Adoor Gopalakrishnan by Girish Kasaravalli.

A timelapse short film that chronicles Bombay of the 1970s. Used as educational tool to understand time-lapse, sound sync and lighting apart from historical chronicle of a city.

"Discover Dr Anil Prakash Joshi's Himalayan journey in 'A Son Of Himalaya". From rural roots to ecological visionary, witness his symphony of sustainability, GEP innovation, and the transformative power of nature's whispers.

To the city come men, women, fruits, flowers, vegetables, goats and sheep – all ready for consumption. It is the process of consumption/exploitation that forms the core of the film.

This documentary highlights the achievements of India in the political, economic, and international fields since she attained Independence. The framing of her Constitution, the integration of the States and the general elections, the rehabilitation of displaced persons, the river valley projects, and the setting up of a chain of National Laboratories are some of the achievements shown here.

A short film that sets up an opposition between functional forms of industrial age and decorative ones from Indian tradition.

Here in this film about the Indian classical music, the sitar maestro Pt. Ravi Shankar and the santoor maestro Pt. Shiv Kumar Sharma explaining their concepts of a raga, a gharana, and their world of music. Characteristics of various gharana/schools such as the Jaipur gharana, the Kirana gharana, the Agra gharana, the Patiala gharana, the Mewati gharana are explained along with the contribution made by their leading exponents.

A lyrical Indian documentary tracing the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. Directed by Rajbans Khanna and produced by Bimal Roy, the film blends narration with evocative imagery of India’s landscapes, art, and archaeological sites to reflect the Buddha’s search for wisdom and peace. Premiering in Paris, it went on to earn a Special Mention at the 1957 Cannes Film Festival, where its spiritual depth and visual poetry were widely praised.

The film highlighting the Dravidian temple architecture and bronze sculpture which attained the creative pinnacle during the rule of the Cholas in the 10th and the 11th centuries. Cholas were great temple builders. The temple of Vijayalaya Cholesvara is one of the finest examples of the early Chola style. The temple of Nagesvara at Kumbakonam is remarkable for the sculptures found in the niches of its outer walls. The Brihadesvara temple at Thanjavur is a landmark in the evolution of building art in India.Among several such unique temples, Tribhuvanam is the last important temple belonging to the Cholas. Besides temple architecture,the bronze sculpture of the Cholas holds a unique place in the field of art. One of the most important and famous of all Hindu icons,that of the cosmic dance of the Nataraja is intimately associated with the Chola bronzes.

Documentary on the Great Stupa at Sanchi, built by the Emperor Ashoka, and adorned with some of the finest examples of Buddhist art in the world.

A nation's culture is a measure of its maturity. Culture, however is a living reality and our daily lives reflect in how we behave towards one another. This film approaches this subject and emphasises the need for consideration of others, which is the best foundation for good manners.

A documentary biography of Mahatma Gandhi, tracing his life from 1869 to 1948 through archival photographs, live-action footage, animation, and historical prints. Narrated largely in Gandhi’s own words, the film follows his political journey and lifelong pursuit of truth and nonviolence. Directed by Vithalbhai Jhaveri, it exists in multiple versions of varying lengths and languages.

The film discusses the various aspects of Begum Akhtar’s life. She was also known as the “Gazal and Thumri Queen”. An intimate portrait, the film presents her in the domestic set-up of her home and as a formidable performer.

The film shows the role of school teachers and the importance thereof.

This biographical film is a tribute to a pioneering actress Smita Patil through her works a tribute to the parallel cinema. Her realistic dignified portrayals of the emerging women's movement in India creating a space for women on screen and role models for them off-screen.