Film season to mark 70th anniversary of historical event
A film season set to mark the 70th anniversary of Partition is set to happen in Manchester next month.
Taking place at HOME, the film season aims to discuss the Partition, which divided India and initially creating Pakistan and later Bangladesh. The event aims to provide the context of the issues surrounding Partition in 1947, its legacy on the world today and a reminder that we have the opportunity to learn from history.
In addition to a rich and varied selection of films, audiences will also be able to take part in a range of events designed to enhance our understanding of Partition and its momentous impact.
Andy Willis said “This season presents an opportunity for audiences to see a range of films about, as well as inspired by, the events surrounding the Partition of India. Some of these such as Ritwik Ghatak’s 1960 The Cloud-Capped Star are all time classics of Indian cinema, whilst others such as Qissa are contemporary works of some note.
“Throw in the opportunity to discuss the latter film with its director Anup Singh, who will be present for the weekend, and a one hour introduction to Partition cinema by expert Omar Ahmed and you have what is lining up to be a weekend not to be missed.”
The Partition programme at HOME includes:
Viceroy’s House – Friday June 9, 15:45
Chadha’s film deals with complex issues and ideas within the format of a popular, audience pleasing romance set in the Viceroy’s house. As those upstairs plan the Partition India below a romance is blossoming between a couple of servants – one Hindu and one Muslim.
The Cloud-Capped Star – Saturday June 10, 15:15
Partition was a driving force in the life of celebrated filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak. Through its tale of Nita’s struggle to keep her refugee family afloat The Cloud-Capped Star operates as a harsh criticism of the social and economic conditions that arose from Partition.
Qissa: The Tale of a Lonely Ghost + Q&A – Saturday June 10, 18:00
Irrfan Khan stars a man forced to leave his home and move his family as a result of the Partition of India. Through its story of a man desperate for a son, Qissa deftly explores the psychological as well as the physical impact of Partition. The event will be joined by director Anup Singh for a post-screening Q&A.
The Name of a River + Q&A – Sunday June 11, 14:00
Inspired by the work of legendary Indian director Ritwik Ghatak, Anup Singh’s documentary styled drama that uses a love story between a man and a woman crossing the river between Bangladesh and India to explore a range of issues thrown up by the Partition of India. The event will be joined by director Anup Singh for a post-screening Q&A.
E-Flat – Sunday June 11, 18:30
Director Ghatak takes the results of Partition as inspiration for this compelling, allegorical, backstage drama that focuses on two rival theatre companies who have to work together on a production of the classic Shakuntala.
