‘Anand Math’ screening at KIFF honours 150 years of Vande Mataram and centenary of Pradeep Kumar

At the 31st Kolkata International Film Festival, the screening of Hemen Gupta’s classic Anand Math paid tribute to two milestones — 150 years of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, and 100 years of legendary actor Pradeep Kumar. The event, held on November 7, 2025, saw the presence of actress Beena Banerjee, daughter of the late Pradeep Kumar, who shared heartfelt memories of her father and reflected on the film’s enduring significance. Expressing concern over how the youth are increasingly drawn towards global influences, Beena remarked, “We hardly know our country. We hardly see our country.” She urged audiences to reconnect with India’s heritage and rediscover the beauty within their own homeland. Recalling her father’s deep dedication to his craft, Beena shared anecdotes of how Pradeep Kumar went to great lengths to perfect his roles — even learning multiple languages to deliver his dialogues with authenticity and emotional precision. The screening served as a reminder of both the patriotic spirit that defined Anand Math and the timeless artistry of Pradeep Kumar, whose legacy continues to inspire Indian cinema.