FIVE FILMS THAT BRIDGED DIVIDE

GARAM HAWA (1973)

It was one of the most poignant films on the aftermath of Partition of the nationalist Muslims who chose to stay back. MS Sathyu’s Garam Hawa was also the first film to focus on the impact of the divide on people. Based on Ismat Chughtai’s stories, written by Kaifi Azmi and Saba Zaidi, it had Balraj Sahni playing Mirza Sahib who chooses not to migrate to Pakistan and the repercussions of the decision on his own family told with subtle pain. It was set in Agra and is considered to be one of Sahni’s best roles. Supporting actors included Shauqat Azmi, Geeta Kak, Farooq Sheikh and Jalal Agha. The film went on to win a National Film Award, three Filmfare awards and a nomination for Palme d’ Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Sheer poetry in celluloid, it is considered one of the most serious films on the theme of the Partition.