Shiraz: A Romance of India

East Bay Premiere of Digital Restoration!

featuring

Himansu Rai, Enakshi Rama Rau, Charu Roy, Seeta Devi,

Based on the romance between seventeenth-century Mughal ruler Shah Jahan and his queen, this epic silent film is the ravishing, romantic tale behind the creation of one of the world’s most iconic structures, the Taj Mahal. Shot entirely on location in India, it features lavish costumes and gorgeous settings—all the more impressive in this restoration by the BFI National Archive, which features a new score by sitarist and composer Anoushka Shankar. Indian film legend Himansu Rai (who also produced the film) stars as humble potter Shiraz, who follows his childhood sweetheart Selima (Enakshi Rama Rau) when she is sold by slave traders to the future emperor (Charu Roy).

FILM DETAILS 
Screenwriter
  • William Burton
Based On
  • a story by Niranjan Pal

Cinematographer
  • Henry Harris
  • Emil Schünemann
Language
  • Silent
  • with English intertitles and music track
Print Info
  • B&W
  • DCP
  • 105 mins
Source
  • Juno Films