The timeless legacy of Indian cinema was at the forefront of WAVES 2025 with the insightful panel discussion “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics.” Moderated by Taran Adarsh, the discussion explored the importance, challenges, and future of restoring classic films for modern audiences, with distinguished industry experts emphasizing the need for preservation and accessibility.
Kamal Gianchandani, a key player in film exhibition and distribution, stressed the urgency of making classic films available on digital platforms, noting that many iconic films disappear from public memory due to limited accessibility. He pointed out that despite the overwhelming influx of new content, the industry must prioritize preserving its foundational works to maintain a connection with India’s rich cinematic past.
Shehzad Sippy, representing the legacy of iconic Indian cinema, reflected on the evolution of filmmaking techniques and the unique storytelling methods of earlier decades. He highlighted the immense financial, technical, and human resource investment required for restoration, emphasizing that audiences today are eager to experience the artistry of past eras through modern restoration efforts.
Adding a policy-driven perspective, Prakash Magdum, Additional Director General, Press Information Bureau & Central Bureau of Communication, Ahmedabad, discussed government initiatives aimed at preserving India’s cinematic heritage. He elaborated on the National Film Heritage Mission, a comprehensive effort to digitize, restore, and archive classic Indian films, ensuring they remain accessible to future generations. He described film restoration as a meticulous process requiring expertise across multiple domains, with factors such as temperature, humidity, and digital preservation complexities presenting significant challenges.
Jackky Bhagnani, actor and film producer, noted the changing nature of audience preferences, emphasizing that while quality content is always valued, preferences remain subjective and seasonal. He underlined the commitment of filmmakers to delivering meaningful content, irrespective of the era.
The discussion at WAVES 2025 reinforced the significance of restored classics as more than relics of the past, positioning them as vibrant carriers of India’s cultural identity and cinematic legacy. With cutting-edge technology, growing industry commitment, and strong government backing, the business of film restoration is expected to expand, ensuring that India’s iconic cinematic works continue to inspire generations to come.
