Exclusive: Guru Dutt's granddaughters open up about Pyaasa's re-release

Time of India

09-07-2025

Pyaasa poster and Karuna Dutt
A nationwide retrospective showcasing Dutt's timeless classics, meticulously restored in 4K by National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC) and National Film Archive of India (NFAI), will be screened at theatres from August 8 to 10.
The centrepiece of this tribute is the premiere of the 4K restored version of Dutt's iconic film Pyaasa, to be held on August 6, commemorating the maestro's 100th birth anniversary.
Set against the backdrop of Kolkata, Pyaasa tells the tale of Vijay (played by Guru Dutt), a disillusioned Urdu poet whose literary work is overlooked by publishers. Speaking about the film that held a special place in Dutt's heart, his granddaughter Gouri Dutt tells us, 'Pyaasa was a very special film for him.
It was something he had written earlier on but waited till he could make it. In fact, the film was written under the title Kashmakash.
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His other granddaughter Karuna adds, 'We've grown up hearing stories about Pyaasa – like how Guru Dutt was initially reluctant to act in it, having approached Dilip Kumar for the role before ultimately casting himself. There's also the widely shared account of Gulabo's character, portrayed by Waheeda Rehman, being inspired by a real person.'
In addition to Pyaasa, audiences will also get to watch the restored versions of Aar Paar, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Mr & Mrs 55, and Baaz. Reflecting on the re-release of these films, the two emphasise the enduring relevance of his work as a vital aspect of his legacy. Karuna explains, 'Because so many of his films delved into the human condition and so vividly portrayed the inner worlds and personalities of his characters, audiences have continued to connect with them across generations.
Gouri adds, 'As a director, his characters were real and so were their struggles. That is why audiences have always connected with his films and that is what I think will continue to make even newer audiences appreciate his legacy as a filmmaker.'
The restoration of Pyaasa has been carried out while ensuring that its lyrical charm and soulful narrative is preserved for future generations. Prakash Magdum, Managing Director of NFDC, said, 'Restoring Guru Dutt's films is not just about reviving old prints; it's about preserving the soul of Indian cinema. With this retrospective, we hope to celebrate his artistic genius and ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers and audiences.
These films are being restored as part of the National Film Heritage Mission, an initiative of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.'