New Delhi, May 18 — In a fitting homage to the cinematic brilliance of Guru Dutt, Ultra Media & Entertainment Group has unveiled fully restored versions of the legendary filmmaker's iconic movies, including Pyaasa and Kaagaz Ke Phool, at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. This initiative marks a grand tribute to Dutt in the lead-up to his 100th birth anniversary on July 9, 2025.
Celebrating a Cinematic Legacy at Cannes
Ultra Media is showcasing Dutt's masterpieces at a dedicated stall at the prestigious film gala in Cannes, presenting them to a global audience as part of a celebration of his enduring legacy. Alongside Pyaasa and Kaagaz Ke Phool, other timeless classics such as Chaudhvin Ka Chand and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam are also being screened."This is a small homage that we are paying to the legendary actor, producer and filmmaker Guru Dutt," said Rajat Agrawal, COO and Director at Ultra Media & Entertainment Group.
Restoring Art with Respect and Precision
Agrawal emphasized that the restoration process was carried out with deep reverence and technological precision, using top-tier software such as Diamant, PF Clean, and Revival."Film restoration and preservation are not just about technology; they are also about respect for our storytellers, audiences, and cultural legacy," he said.
He added that the restoration journey began several years ago, and the team ensured that every frame was treated with meticulous attention to detail.
Month-Long Celebration in India
Following its international showcase, Ultra Media will extend the celebration to India with a month-long tribute starting in July. The festivities will include theatrical re-releases of the restored films, curated exhibitions, and panel discussions featuring celebrated filmmakers."This initiative will help the world to know about his classics. Although many people already know his work, this will give it a broader audience and wider reach in the best possible way," Agrawal noted.
Global Interest in Guru Dutt’s Work
The initiative has already sparked growing international interest, with multiple screening requests and streaming platform inquiries coming from Europe and other parts of the world.Agrawal expressed confidence that the restored versions would serve as valuable study material for aspiring filmmakers worldwide.
"Viewers across the world can now enjoy his films for many years to come. These restored classics are also a great study reference for many young and aspiring filmmakers," he said.
A Broader Mission to Preserve Indian Cinema
The tribute to Guru Dutt is part of Ultra Media’s broader commitment to preserving and globally promoting India’s cinematic heritage. The company has also colourised several classics, including Chori Chori (featuring Nargis and Raj Kumar), Paigham, and Insaniyat, the only film starring both Dev Anand and Dilip Kumar.“Going ahead, we will be restoring many other classics of renowned filmmakers and actors, as we have already been doing,” Agrawal affirmed.
This tribute not only reintroduces Guru Dutt’s timeless artistry to a new generation but also reinforces India’s growing presence on the global film restoration map.
