Explore the impact of Indian Parallel Cinema, a groundbreaking post-colonial film movement, in Rewriting the Rules: Pioneering Indian Cinema after 1970. This three-month cinema season presents innovative films from the 1970s to the 1990s, known for their social and political commitment. The season is part of the Barbican’s major exhibition The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975-1998 and includes in-depth introductions to each film.

The programme features a range of documentary, narrative, and experimental films by directors who made bold aesthetic choices, merging Indian art and culture while addressing themes of marginalization. Highlights include the noirish 27 Down (1974), a stunning restoration of The Circus Tent (1978), and India’s first queer film, Infamous Neighbourhood (1971), recently rediscovered in 2019. Other films showcase women’s rights, social unrest, and religious fundamentalism, offering a profound glimpse into India’s cultural and political evolution.

Curated by Dr. Omar Ahmed, a film scholar and expert in South Asian Cinema, this season introduces audiences to the rich and diverse landscape of Indian cinema during a period of great change. The programme complements the Barbican’s broader exploration of Indian arts and culture, making these cinematic gems essential viewing.

Key Screenings:

• Interview (1971) by Mrinal Sen – Thu 3 Oct
• The Wall (1975) by Yash Chopra – Sun 6 Oct
• 27 Down (1974) by Awatar Krishna Kaul – Wed 23 Oct
• This Bit of India – Sat 26 Oct
• The Circus Tent (1978) by Govindan Aravindan – Sat 2 Nov
• Duvidha (1973) by Mani Kaul – Thu 7 Nov
• India Cabaret (1985) by Mira Nair – Wed 11 Nov
• Report to Mother (1986) by John Abraham – Sun 1 Dec
• In the Name of God (1992) by Anand Patwardhan – Wed 4 Dec
• Infamous Neighbourhood (1971) by Prem Kapoor – Thu 12 Dec

On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 October, to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, Diwali, and the Sikh festival Bandi Chhor Divas, the Barbican will offer a range of events highlighting Indian arts and culture. Visitors can enjoy free entry to The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975-1998 in the art gallery. In the cinema, curator Shai Heredia will introduce (via pre-recorded video) a special programme of experimental shorts titled This Bit of India, which explores themes of youth culture, feminism, and urbanization. Additionally, the long-running Darbar Festival of Indian Classical Music (24–27 October) will return, featuring a pop-up market, stalls, and free concerts, turning the Barbican into an immersive celebration of Indian culture.

Presenting this punchy and enlightening film programme as part of Barbican’s landmark exhibition The Imaginary Institution of India: Art 1975-1998 gives us an opportunity to profoundly engage in the work of filmmakers and artists who offer a stunning creative vision of India during a significant period of political and cultural change. Doing so at a time when India is going through a new period of socio-political upheaval, gives this programme further resonance, turning these cinematic rarities to essential viewing. – Gali Gold, Barbican Head of Cinema

Tickets:

• On sale to Barbican Members on 14 August
• On sale to the public on 15 August
• Standard: £13 | Members: £10.40 | Concessions: £11 | Under 18s: £6 | Young Barbican: £5

Visit the Barbican website for special ticket offers and further details.

Featured image courtesy of Barbican Centre

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