Birth Centenary of Legends

India is celebrating birth centenary of five iconic figures who shaped the golden era of Indian cinema, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is set to pay an enduring tribute to their rich legacy. This momentous occasion will be marked at the first edition of the World Audio Video & Entertainment Summit (WAVES-2025), scheduled from 01st to 04th May 2025 in Mumbai — the heartland of India’s entertainment industry.

The Summit, envisioned as a global confluence of creators, storytellers, policy makers, and innovators from the world of audio- visual and entertainment arts, opens on 01st May 2025 with a grand inaugural ceremony. As a centerpiece of the inaugural event, the Government of India releases Commemorative Postage Stamp honoring five legendary figures of Indian cinema — Shri Guru Dutt, Shri Ritwik Ghatak, Shri Salil Chowdhury, Shri Raj Khosla, and Ms. P. Bhanumathi — on the occasion of their birth centenaries.

This rare tribute underscores the nation’s deep appreciation for these iconic personalities whose timeless contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian and global cinematic traditions.

1. Guru Dutt: A visionary artist and one of the most revered auteurs of Indian cinema. Guru Dutt’s name is synonymous with poetic storytelling and visual brilliance. As an actor, director, producer, writer, and choreographer, he brought an unmatched sensitivity and introspection to Indian film narratives. Known for classics like Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, his films explored themes of existential despair, unrequited love, and the complexities of human emotions. Dutt’s mastery over lighting, innovative camera angles, and soulful music sequences turned his films into lyrical masterpieces. Though his life was tragically short, his cinematic legacy continues to inspire filmmakers

2. Ritwik Ghatak: A pillar of Indian parallel cinema, Ritwik Ghatak was a Bengali filmmaker whose powerful narratives reshaped the language of Indian filmmaking. His deeply personal and sociall conscious films—such as Meghe Dhaka Tara, Subarnarekha, and Komal Gandhar—delved into the trauma of the Partition, themes of displacement, cultural identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. Known for his stylized yet emotionally resonant storytelling, Ghatak was a master of fusing folklore and mythology with the harsh realities of modern life. Though his work received limited acclaim during his lifetime, today he is celebrated as a cinematic icon whose influence is felt not just in India but globally among serious filmmakers and scholars.

3. Salil Chowdhury: A multifaceted genius, Salil Chowdhury was one of India’s most innovative music composers, lyricists, and poets. With an uncanny ability to blend Indian classical and folk traditions with Western orchestration, he created melodies that were deeply rooted in cultural ethos and emotions. His music transcended linguistic boundaries, with iconic compositions in Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, and more. Films like Madhumati, Do Bigha Zamin, and Anand showcased his musical brilliance and commitment to socially relevant themes. A staunch believer in art as a vehicle for justice and change, Salilda—as he was fondly known—remains a towering figure in Indian film music, whose compositions continue to resonate with emotion, depth, and harmony.

4. Raj Khosla: A master storyteller and one of the foremost directors of Hindi cinema’s golden age, Raj Khosla brought elegance, suspense, and musical magic to mainstream films. Renowned for his versatility, Khosla helmed a wide range of genres—from thrillers (Woh Kaun Thi, Mera Saaya) to romantic dramas (Do Badan, Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki) and action-packed narratives. He was known for crafting strong female characters and weaving music into the very fabric of his stories. His collaborations with celebrated actors and composers produced some of Bollywood’s most memorable cinematic moments. Raj Khosla’s work not only entertained millions but also elevated the narrative structure of commercial Hindi films.

5. P. Bhanumathi: A trailblazer in every sense, P. Bhanumathi was a multi-talented powerhouse whose contributions transformed South Indian cinema. An accomplished actress, singer, director, and writer, she broke barriers at a time when female voices were rarely heard behind the camera. Starring in numerous Telugu and Tamil films, Bhanumati brought strength, grace, and complexity to her roles. As one of India’s first female film directors, she tackled bold social themes and established a commanding presence on and off screen. Her artistic courage and pioneering spirit continue to inspire generations of women in Indian cinema, making her a beacon of empowerment and excellence.