A newly restored 4K print of the 1981 classic period musical drama “Umrao Jaan” is set for its European premiere at the Tongues on Fire UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF), which opens in London next week, according to PTI reports.
Reporting from Gold 101.3 FM – UAE’s No.1 Malayalam Radio Station, the restoration of the iconic film, which follows the journey of a Lucknow courtesan and poet played by Rekha, was undertaken by the National Film Archive of India. The screening will take place at the British Film Institute (BFI) IMAX, followed by reflections from director Muzaffar Ali.
This year’s UKAFF edition is themed “Stories That Bind Us,” highlighting films and events centred on the South Asian experience.
Festival founder and director Dr. Pushpinder Chowdhry said the programme celebrates bold storytelling, meaningful conversations, and outstanding work from both established and emerging filmmakers.
Now in its 28th year, the festival also features the UK premiere of the Bengali film “Baksho Bondi (Shadowbox)”, directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi, starring Tillotama Shome. The lineup further includes a live musical tribute titled “Magical Melodies”, honouring O.P. Nayyar, Dharmendra, and Asha Bhosle.
A special British Asian strand will spotlight stories rooted in South Asian communities in the UK, including the Punjabi drama “Never Had A Chance” by Jazz Bhalla.
Creative Director Samir Bhamra said the selection reflects the complexity of lived experiences and the power of storytelling to reconnect communities and foster understanding amid growing divisions.
The festival will conclude on May 10 with the UKAFF Awards, where filmmaker Muzaffar Ali will be honoured with the Golden Flame Lifetime Achievement Award.
