"This initiative will help the world to know about his classics."
Ultra Media and Entertainment Group unveiled fully restored versions of Guru Dutt’s timeless films at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the legendary filmmaker’s 100th birth anniversary.
Screenings include Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam and others. These restored classics aim to connect international cinephiles with India’s rich cinematic heritage.
Rajat Agrawal, COO & Director, Ultra Media and Entertainment Group, said in a statement:
“Film restoration and preservation are not just about technology; they are also about respect for our storytellers, audiences, and cultural legacy.
“This is a small homage that we are paying to the legendary actor, producer and filmmaker Guru Dutt.”
Born on July 9, 1925, Guru Dutt is widely regarded as one of India’s most influential directors.
His films blended lyrical storytelling with social commentary and poetic visuals.
As part of the centenary celebrations, Ultra will also launch a month-long tribute across India in July 2025. This will include theatrical re-releases, exhibitions and panel discussions led by contemporary filmmakers.
The company used advanced manual 4K/2K restoration methods to preserve these classics. Technologies such as Diamant, PF Clean, and Revival were employed to meticulously restore each frame.
On the painstakingly lengthy restoration process, Agrawal said his company’s goal is to introduce more people to Guru Dutt’s films:
“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.
“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.”
Ultra sees the initiative as part of a broader cultural mission.
Their commitment goes beyond Guru Dutt’s work.
The company has also colourised classics like Chori Chori, Paigham and Insaniyat, the only film to feature Dev Anand and Dilip Kumar together.
These efforts were powered by Ultra’s proprietary colourisation technology.
The company said:
“The future of storytelling lies in embracing both heritage and innovation.”
“By combining state-of-the-art tools with deep passion, they are making India’s rich creative history accessible to every corner of the world.”
Agrawal hopes to restore the films of more classic filmmakers, adding:
“Going ahead, we will be restoring many other classics of renowned filmmakers and actors as we have already been doing.”
Guru Dutt’s centenary is more than a retrospective, it is a call to rediscover and honour an artist whose influence transcends borders and generations.
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