The grand screening of Umrao Jaan ahead of its much-anticipated re-release turned into a glamorous celebration of Indian cinema in Mumbai tonight. The red carpet was graced by several Bollywood stars, but it was Rekha who truly stole the spotlight.
Reprising her iconic look from the 1981 classic, Rekha arrived in an opulent ivory and gold ensemble adorned with intricate embroidery and regal jewellery. Channeling the grace of Umrao Jaan herself, the actress exuded timeless elegance, reminding everyone of the role that earned her a National Award and remains etched in cinematic history.
Among those in attendance was Anil Kapoor, who greeted Rekha with folded hands and a heartfelt hug. The duo shared a joyful moment, even dancing together briefly as cameras flashed. Hema Malini, Bollywood’s eternal Dream Girl, also posed for photos, stunning in a richly embroidered plum silk sari.
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The re-release of Umrao Jaan is more than a tribute — it is a celebration of its enduring legacy. Based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s Urdu novel Umrao Jaan Ada, the 1981 film by Muzaffar Ali tells the poignant story of Amiran, a kidnapped girl who transforms into the celebrated courtesan Umrao Jaan in 19th-century Lucknow. The film explores themes of love, loss, poetry, and resilience.
Reflecting on Rekha’s extraordinary performance, director Muzaffar Ali shared with SCREEN, “She had to prepare on many levels—language, singing, dancing… and she performed beyond expectations. Working with her was a gift because this film is woven from quiet emotions. It takes an actor like her to absorb those feelings and translate them onto the screen.”
As Umrao Jaan returns to theatres, it brings with it not just nostalgia but a renewed appreciation for a masterpiece that defined elegance, emotion, and artistry in Indian cinema.