World Hindi Day underscores the magic when Hindi novels leap from pages to the big screen, birthing cinematic treasures.
Bollywood owes much to Hindi literature’s rich tapestry. ‘Devdas’ by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay remains the ultimate tragic romance, with adaptations starring legends like K.L. Saigal, Dilip Kumar, and modern icons, each capturing its essence of unrequited love and self-destruction.
Rama Naik’s ‘Mrignayani’ inspired ‘Mother India,’ a saga of maternal fortitude starring Nargis. Overcoming betrayals and calamities, it became a cornerstone of Indian film heritage.
Vijay Anand’s ‘Guide’ masterfully adapted R.K. Narayan’s novel, featuring Dev Anand’s evolution from rogue to sage, enriched by profound dialogues and melodies.
The world of ‘Umrao Jaan Ada’ by Ruswa came alive in Muzaffar Ali’s film, with Rekha’s nuanced performance highlighting themes of beauty, betrayal, and resilience in feudal India.
Influences extend to films like ‘Tezaab’ echoing literary motifs and ‘Dangal’ inspired by real-life stories akin to biographical novels. These cinematic renditions celebrate Hindi literature’s adaptability, proving its timeless appeal in visual storytelling on this special day.