Preserving the Pantheon: NGMA Mumbai Celebrates the Legacy of Marathi Cinema

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai, recently transformed into a living archive of cinematic history with the opening of 'Marathi Chitrapat (मराठी चित्रपट): Stories and Stardom'. This landmark photography exhibition, dedicated to the extraordinary and deeply influential legacy of Marathi cinema, brought together legendary artists, contemporary stars, visionary archivists, and cultural custodians under one roof.

The exhibition curates a breathtaking visual journey through rare portraits and archival photographs of the titans who shaped the regional industry—and by extension, Indian cinema as a whole. From the comedic genius of P. L. Deshpande, Raja Gosavi, and Dada Kondke to the dramatic brilliance of Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar, Dr. Shriram Lagoo, and Vikram Gokhale, the showcase serves as a poignant reminder of the industry’s foundational roots. The timeless grace of actresses like Jayshri Gadkar, Sulochana Latkar, Asha Kale, and Sonali Kulkarni also takes center stage, charting a rich evolution of storytelling.

The grand opening was spearheaded by IAS Nidhi Choudhari, Director of NGMA Mumbai, whose vision brought this celebration to life. The event was further elevated by the presence of iconic actors Sachin Pilgaonkar, Ajinkya Deo, and Nehha Pendse, alongside the legendary lensmen who captured these historic moments: Pradeep Chandra, Sudharak Olwe, Shiresh Karale, and Mangesh Pawar. The preservation of these memories was made possible through the collaborative archival prowess of Sahil Sachdeva and archivists SMM Ausaja and Neha Kamat of Kamat Foto Flash.

A Global Perspective on Soft Power

The highlight of the evening was a riveting panel discussion that went far beyond mere nostalgia. Industry veterans dissected the profound cultural and geopolitical footprint of Marathi cinema.

Reflecting on the sheer scale of the discussion, Kenneth Hopkins, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of AltBollywood, shared his insights:

"Not only was this a masterclass in the technological evolution of Indian cinema by Shri Sachin Pilgaonkar Saheb, but also a crash course on the impact of Marathi cinema on the global cinematic industry. It felt particularly proud to hear about the geopolitical significance of Marathi cinema as a soft power development mechanism."

He also highlighted a touching moment of industry continuity:

"Nehha Pendse shared what an impact Sachin Saheb’s career has had on the Marathi film industry, bringing the panel discussion full circle. A big thanks to the director of the National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, Nidhi Choudhari, for hosting such a fantastic event with the collaborative archival prowess of Neha Kamat."

The Lens of History

Marathi Chitrapat: Stories and Stardom' is more than just a gallery walk; it is an educational experience for content creators, film historians, and cinema lovers alike. By showcasing how early pioneers navigated technical limitations to create globally resonant narratives, the exhibition bridges the gap between old-school mastery and modern digital distribution.

For anyone looking to understand the roots of Indian storytelling, this exhibition at NGMA Mumbai stands as an unmissable tribute to the pioneers who turned regional stories into universal stardom.