Celebrating the legacy of Indian Cinema, today marks the 111th anniversary of the industry. It is interesting to note that contrary to popular belief, the first feature-length film of Indian cinema was not Raja Harishchandra but rather a film called ‘Shree Pundalik.’ Released on May 18, 1912, this silent film directed by Ram Chandra Gopal Torne, also known as Dadasaheb Torne, emerged as the true pioneer in Indian filmmaking. However, some film enthusiasts argue that Shree Pundalik does not deserve the title of the first Indian film due to certain factors. The film negatives, consisting of approximately 1,500 feet and running for around 22 minutes, were sent to London for processing. Additionally, critics point out that Shree Pundalik was essentially a photographic recording of a popular Marathi play, with the cameraman being a British national named Johnson and the film being processed in London.
While acknowledging the historical significance of Shree Pundalik, many people contend that Dadasaheb Phalke’s Raja Harishchandra, released nearly a year later, deserves greater recognition as the first Indian film. Raja Harishchandra holds a special place in Indian cinema history, as it marked the birth of a new era in filmmaking. Directed by Dadasaheb Phalke himself, this full-length feature film was entirely produced and processed within India, which sets it apart from its predecessor, Shree Pundalik.
The debate surrounding the first Indian film revolves around the nature of its production and processing. While Shree Pundalik was an early milestone, it relied on external assistance from a foreign cameraman and had its negatives processed overseas. On the other hand, Raja Harishchandra embodied the true spirit of Indian cinema, as it was an entirely indigenous production. Dadasaheb Phalke’s groundbreaking work in storytelling and filmmaking techniques laid the foundation for the growth and development of Indian cinema, earning Raja Harishchandra its place in history as a remarkable and influential film.
Ultimately, both Shree Pundalik and Raja Harishchandra hold their own significance in the annals of Indian cinema. While the former marked an important milestone in the nascent stages of the industry, the latter symbolized the birth of a distinct and vibrant cinematic culture within India.
As we celebrate the 111th anniversary of Indian cinema, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the contributions of these films and their creators, as they paved the way for the remarkable journey that Indian cinema has embarked upon.