Mehtab

A classic modernization melodrama exploring the consequences of female autonomy.

"Journeys End" a traditional tale told by one of the pioneers in Indian cinema, Jaddanbai Hussain (1892-1949).

The first Gujarati feature film is a saint film about the life of Narasinh Mehta (1408-75), played by Master Manhar. Mehta is known for his evocative Prabhatiyan (morning hymns) and especially for his composition Vaishnava jana to ('The Vaishnav is he who knows the pain of others') made popular by Gandhi, who also adapted the poet's term Harijan (children of god) for the nation's Untouchables. The film adheres to the Gandhian interpretation of Narasinh Mehta's work, avoiding e.g. miracle scenes.

A class division melodrama centred on Mehtab’s histrionics. Kiran (Mehtab) is the daughter of a courtesan. Her lowly origins first destroy her marriage and then threaten to jeopardise her son Prakash’s (Singh) ambitions. She is blackmailed for keeping her son’s parentage a secret from him, forcing her to return to her ancestral profession. The film was a commercial success.

A mythological tale tells the cherished tale of Lord Krishna, the divine king of Dwarka, and his impoverished childhood friend, Sudama. Despite their vastly different lives, their pure bond of friendship endures. The story portrays Sudama's reluctant visit to Dwarka and Krishna's miraculous, selfless blessing upon his devoted friend.

Aziz, an unemployed graduate, turns to crime after his brother’s death and ends up in prison. Years later, he escapes, becomes a gang leader, and unknowingly falls in love with his long-lost sister, leading to a tragic confrontation with the police.

"Moti Ka Haar" (1937), also known as "Pearl Necklace," is an early Hindi film directed by Jaddanbai, a pioneering woman in Indian cinema. Classified as both a fantasy and a social film, its plot likely explores the significance of a pearl necklace within a narrative that touches upon societal themes of the era. Featuring actors like Mehtab and a young Nargis, this film is a notable example from the nascent stages of Indian talkies.

Film starring Mehtab and Wasti.