indian cinema heritage foundation

on this day

14March
14 Mar 2026

Indian cinema’s first talkie, Alam Ara, was premiered at Bombay's Majestic cinema on this day (14 March) in 1931

Indian cinema’s first talkie, Alam Ara, was premiered at Bombay's Majestic cinema on this day (14 March) in 1931. Based on a Parsi play by Joseph David, the film was directed by the Imperial Film Company's Ardeshir Irani. The cast consisted of Master Vithal, Zubeida, Prithviraj Kapoor and Zilloo. Zubeida played the role of Alam Ara. The film is based on a fictional story set in the kingdom of Kamarpur. It is stated by some histor...
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14 Mar 1993

Cinemaazi remembers Marcus Bartley on his death anniversary

Marcus Bartley distinguished himself as one of the most influential cinematographers of South Indian cinemas, particularly well known for his work with K V Reddy and L V Prasad. But the enduring achievement of his career was the brilliant Chemmeen (1965) which won him an award at the Cannes Film Festival. Today is his death anniversary. 
14 Mar 1965

Cinemaazi wishes Aamir Khan a very Happy Birthday!

Known as "Mr. Perfectionist", Aamir Khan's career spanning over 30 years, he has established himself as one of the most notable actors of Indian cinema. Khan is the recipient of numerous awards, nine Filmfare Awards, four National Film Awards and an AACTA Award. He was honoured by the Govt. of India with the Padma Shri (2003), the Padma Bhushan (2010) and received an honorary title from the Govt. of China (2017).
14 Mar 1949

Cinemaazi wishes Farida Jalal a Happy Birthday!

With more than 200 films in her filmography, and numerous popular television shows, Farida Jalal has made a name for herself playing all types of roles. Her long career has seen her onscreen as a leading lady, a daughter, sister, mother and even grandmother.
14 Mar 1913

Cinemaazi remembers S N Tripathi on his birth anniversary

S N Tripathi was a student at the Morris College when Himanshu Rai chanced upon him and offered him and the future Saraswati Devi jobs at Bombay Talkies. Thus began a hugely prolific career in which he composed music, directed and acted in films. Today is his birth anniversary. 
14 Mar 1912

Cinemaazi remembers Hiralal on his birth anniversary

One of the most versatile actors to grace the Indian screen, Hiralal was far more than the villain he is remembered as. A hard-working and well-travelled artiste, he had a long and fruitful career in cinema. Today is his birth anniversary. 
13March
13 Mar 2002

Cinemaazi remembers Nasir Hussain on his death anniversary

Nasir Hussain, the famous hit-maker who played an important role in establishing the conventions of the modern mainstream film, passed away on this day. Cinemaazi presents an article by his colleague and friend Rajinder Singh Bedi describing their relationship and a personal impression of Hussain.
13 Mar 1996

Cinemaazi remembers Shafi Inamdar in his death anniversary

Shafi Inamdar was one of the most notable, prominent and memorable actors, supporting artist and theatre enthusiast of the Indian cinema industry, who tragically left the world too soon. He came in touch with eminent Gujarati theatre artist Pravin Joshi, under whose guidance and mentorship he began his journey towards becoming and actor and theatre director.
13 Mar 1933

Cinemaazi remembers Sulochana Kadam on her birth anniversary

Earning recognition for her Marathi rendition of Mere chhoti si man mein chhoti si duniye re, Sulochana Kadam made her playback debut with Krishna Sudama (1947). It was 1951's Dholak which brought her success. She went on to become one of the best Lavni singers of her time. Today is her birth anniversary. Image source: Beete Hue Din
12March
12 Mar 1976

Cinemaazi remembers J S Casshyap on his death anniversary

J S Casshyap, writer-lyricist, passed away this day in 1976. He penned the lyrics for more than 200 songs in the course of his career, and also wrote the dialogues for Bombay Talkies’ Achhut Kanya (1936), and Mem Sabhib (1956). He had also acted in early films such as Jawani Ki Hawa (1935), Mamta & Miya Bibi (1936), and Anyay (1949). He also directed the film Anyay. Writing lyrics for no less than 28 films, he worked on Jawani Ki Hawa,...
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12 Mar 1924

Cinemaazi remembers Utpala Sen on her birth anniversary

Remembered for the memorable classics Amar mallika bone, Prantarer gaan amar and Ek haate mor pujar thala, Utpala Sen was born on this day in Dhaka in 1924.
12 Mar 1923

Cinemaazi remembers G R Kamat on his birth anniversary

G R Kamat's contribution has left an indelible mark on the Marathi literary culture and Indian cinema. Born on this day in 1923, he grew up to assist in the editorial capacity of some of the leading literary magazines and newspapers such as Mauj and Navakaal. He shared a close collaborative partnership with Raj Paranjpye that resulted in films such as Pedgaonche Shahane (1952), Lakhachi Goshta (1952). His collaborations with Raj Khosla produc...
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