Amrapali Film Full Movie: The True Story Behind the Legendary Courtesan and the King
- Who are the main actors and director? - What is the plot summary? - Why is it a classic movie? H2: The Historical Background of Amrapali Film - When and where was the film set? - Who were the historical figures that inspired the characters? - What was the political and social context of the time? H2: The Production and Reception of Amrapali Film - How was the film made? - What were the challenges and achievements of the filmmakers? - How did the critics and audiences react to the film? - What awards and recognition did the film receive? H2: The Themes and Messages of Amrapali Film - How does the film portray love, war, peace, and religion? - What are the moral dilemmas and conflicts faced by the characters? - How does the film reflect on the human condition and society? H2: The Legacy and Influence of Amrapali Film - How has the film influenced other films and media? - How has the film preserved and popularized Indian culture and history? - How has the film inspired social movements and causes? H2: Conclusion - Summarize the main points of the article - Provide a personal opinion or recommendation on the film - Invite the reader to watch or rewatch the film H2: FAQs - Where can I watch Amrapali film full movie online? - Is Amrapali film based on a true story? - Who was Amrapali in real life? - What is the significance of Amrapali's dance in the film? - What is the message of Buddha in the film? Based on this outline, here is the article with HTML formatting: Amrapali Film Full Movie: A Classic Tale of Love and War
If you are looking for a captivating historical drama that combines romance, action, and spirituality, you should watch Amrapali film full movie. Amrapali is a 1966 Hindi movie directed by Lekh Tandon and starring Vyjayanthimala and Sunil Dutt in the lead roles. The film is based on a legendary courtesan who lived in ancient India during the time of Buddha. The film tells the story of how she falls in love with a warrior king who invades her city-state, and how she renounces her worldly life to follow Buddha's teachings. The film is a classic masterpiece that showcases Indian culture, history, art, and philosophy.
Amrapali film full movie
Introduction
What is Amrapali film?
Amrapali is a Hindi-language movie that was released in 1966. It belongs to the genre of historical drama or epic. It is based on a novel by Vaidya Nath Mishra, which was inspired by Buddhist texts and legends. The film was produced by F.C. Mehra under his banner Eagle Films. The film was directed by Lekh Tandon, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Sachin Bhowmick. The music was composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, who won a Filmfare Award for Best Music Director. The film also features some of the most memorable songs of Hindi cinema, such as "Tumhen Yaad Karte Karte", "Neel Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein", and "Jao Re Jogi Tum Jao Re". The lyrics were written by Shailendra and Hasrat Jaipuri, and the singers were Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, and Mahendra Kapoor. The film is also known for its spectacular dance sequences, choreographed by Hiralal and performed by Vyjayanthimala, who was a trained Bharatanatyam dancer. The film showcases the rich and diverse culture of ancient India through its costumes, sets, music, and dance.
Who are the main actors and director?
The main actors of Amrapali film are Sunil Dutt and Vyjayanthimala, who play the roles of Ajatashatru and Amrapali respectively. Sunil Dutt was a popular actor, producer, director, and politician, who starred in many successful films such as Mother India, Sujata, Mujhe Jeene Do, Padosan, and Yaadein. He was also the father of actor Sanjay Dutt and husband of actress Nargis. Vyjayanthimala was one of the most celebrated actresses of Hindi cinema, who acted in many hit films such as Devdas, Madhumati, Sadhna, Ganga Jamuna, Sangam, and Jewel Thief. She was also a member of parliament and a classical dancer. The director of Amrapali film is Lekh Tandon, who was a veteran filmmaker, writer, and actor. He directed many acclaimed films such as Professor, Dulhan Wahi Jo Piya Man Bhaye, Agar Tum Na Hote, and Doosri Dulhan. He also acted in films such as Swades, Rang De Basanti, Chennai Express, and Tamasha.
What is the plot summary?
The plot summary of Amrapali film is as follows: Ajatashatru is the king of Magadh, who is obsessed with conquering the neighboring republic of Vaishali. He attacks Vaishali several times but fails to defeat its army. He disguises himself as a wounded soldier and takes shelter in the house of Amrapali, a beautiful courtesan who is also the chief dancer of Vaishali. He falls in love with her and she reciprocates his feelings. However, she does not know his true identity. Meanwhile, Ajatashatru plots with his general Badbadhra Singh to weaken the morale and strength of Vaishali's soldiers by bribing them with alcohol and women. Amrapali wins a dance competition and becomes the royal courtesan of Vaishali's king. She learns that Ajatashatru is the enemy king and breaks up with him. Ajatashatru launches a final attack on Vaishali and destroys it completely. He rescues Amrapali from the prison but she rejects him again. She tells him that she has met Buddha and renounced her worldly life. She convinces him to seek peace and follow Buddha's path.
Why is it a classic movie?
It is a classic movie because it is a masterpiece of Indian cinema that depicts a fascinating story of love and war in ancient India. It is based on historical sources and legends that portray the life and times of Amrapali, who was a real person and a famous figure in Buddhist tradition. The film explores the themes of patriotism, loyalty, sacrifice, violence, spirituality, and morality through its characters and events. The film also showcases the artistic excellence of its makers through its stunning cinematography, music, dance, costumes, and performances. The film has received critical acclaim and recognition from various national and international forums. It was India's official entry for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1967 but was not nominated. It was also screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 1966. The film has influenced many other films and media that have depicted the story of Amrapali or similar stories of historical romance.
The Historical Background of Amrapali Film
When and where was the film set?
The film was set in ancient India around the 6th century BC. The film depicts two rival kingdoms: Magadh and Vaishali. Magadh was an empire that ruled over most parts of northern India under the Haryanka dynasty. Its capital was Rajagriha (modern Rajgir) in present-day Bihar. Its most famous king was Bimbisara, who was succeeded by his son Ajatashatru after a coup. Vaishali was a republic that was part of the V rijji confederation, a federation of 16 states that had a democratic form of government. Its capital was Vaishali (modern Besarh) in present-day Bihar. It was one of the first republics in the world and had a strong army and economy. It was also a center of culture and learning, where many schools of philosophy and religion flourished, such as Jainism and Buddhism. The film also depicts the life and teachings of Buddha, who was a contemporary of Ajatashatru and Amrapali. Buddha was born as Siddhartha Gautama in Lumbini (modern Nepal) and attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya (modern Bihar). He traveled across India and taught his doctrine of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to end suffering and attain nirvana. He had many followers and disciples, including kings, nobles, merchants, and commoners. He died in Kushinagar (modern Uttar Pradesh) at the age of 80.
Who were the historical figures that inspired the characters?
The historical figures that inspired the characters of Amrapali film are as follows: Ajatashatru was the king of Magadh who reigned from 492 BC to 460 BC. He was the son of Bimbisara and Chellana, a princess of Vaishali. He killed his father and usurped the throne with the help of his minister Devadatta, who was also a cousin and rival of Buddha. He waged war against Vaishali and other neighboring states to expand his empire. He also built a fort at Pataliputra (modern Patna) to protect his capital from invasions. He later became a follower of Buddha after meeting him and listening to his teachings. He also patronized other religious sects such as Jainism and Ajivikas. He died of a wound inflicted by his son Udayabhadra, who succeeded him as king. Amrapali was a courtesan and dancer of Vaishali who lived in the 6th century BC. She was born in a mango grove (amra-vati) and was adopted by a wealthy merchant. She grew up to be a beautiful and talented woman who attracted many admirers and clients. She was appointed as the nagarvadhu or royal courtesan of Vaishali by the king after she won a dance competition. She had the right to choose her lovers and enjoyed many privileges and honors. She fell in love with Ajatashatru when he came to her house disguised as a wounded soldier. She later discovered his true identity and broke up with him. She also met Buddha and was impressed by his teachings. She decided to renounce her worldly life and become a Buddhist nun. She donated her wealth and property to the people of Vaishali and joined the order of nuns led by Mahaprajapati Gautami, Buddha's aunt and foster mother. She attained arhatship or enlightenment and died peacefully.
What was the political and social context of the time?
The political and social context of the time when Amrapali film was set was marked by turmoil, conflict, and change. India was divided into many kingdoms and republics that were constantly at war with each other for power and resources. The most powerful among them were Magadh, Kosala, Kashi, Avanti, Gandhara, Kamboja, Anga, Vanga, Kalinga, etc. The republics were governed by an assembly of elected representatives from different clans or tribes, such as the Vrijjis, Mallas, Sakyas, Licchavis, etc. The republics had a democratic system that allowed for debate, dissent, and decision-making by consensus. However, they also faced internal divisions and external threats from the monarchies that sought to annex them. The period also witnessed the rise of new religious and philosophical movements that challenged the authority and rituals of Brahmanism or Vedic religion. These movements included Jainism, Buddhism, Ajivikas, Charvakas, etc. They advocated different doctrines and practices that emphasized non-violence, rationality, ethics, liberation, etc. They attracted many followers from different walks of life, especially those who were dissatisfied with the social inequalities and injustices prevalent in the caste system.
The Production and Reception of Amrapali Film
How was the film made?
The film was made with a lot of research, effort, and creativity by its makers. The director Lekh Tandon spent two years studying the historical sources and legends about Amrapali and Ajatashatru before starting the film project. He also consulted with experts on ancient Indian history, culture, art, architecture, etc. He hired Sachin Bhowmick to write the screenplay based on Vaidya Nath Mishra 's novel. He also collaborated with F.C. Mehra, the producer, to select the cast and crew for the film. He chose Sunil Dutt and Vyjayanthimala to play the lead roles of Ajatashatru and Amrapali, as he felt they had the charisma and talent to portray the complex characters. He also cast Prem Nath, Bipin Gupta, K.N. Singh, Madhavi, Gajanan Jagirdar, etc. in supporting roles. He hired Shankar-Jaikishan to compose the music for the film, as he was impressed by their previous work in historical films such as Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai and Mughal-e-Azam. He also hired Shailendra and Hasrat Jaipuri to write the lyrics for the songs, as he admired their poetic skills and versatility. He hired Hiralal to choreograph the dance sequences for the film, as he was a renowned master of classical and folk dances. He also hired M.R. Acharekar to design the sets and costumes for the film, as he was an expert in recreating the ancient Indian ambiance and aesthetics.
The film was shot in various locations in India, such as Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, etc. The film also used some real historical monuments and sites, such as the Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, the Taj Mahal, etc. The film also used some innovative techniques and effects, such as matte painting, split screen, zoom shots, etc. The film also faced some challenges and difficulties during its production, such as delays, accidents, censorship issues, etc. The film took about three years to complete and cost about Rs. 40 lakhs (about $5 million in 2021).
What were the challenges and achievements of the filmmakers?
The filmmakers faced many challenges and achieved many feats while making Amrapali film. Some of them are:
The film was delayed due to various reasons, such as Sunil Dutt's injury in a car accident, Vyjayanthimala's illness, Lekh Tandon's heart attack, etc. The film was also affected by the Indo-Pak war of 1965, which disrupted the shooting schedules and locations.
The film faced censorship issues due to its depiction of violence and sensuality. The censor board objected to some scenes and dialogues that showed bloodshed, torture, nudity, etc. The filmmakers had to cut or modify some scenes to get a U certificate (suitable for all audiences).
The film faced competition from other films that were released around the same time, such as Phool Aur Patthar, Teesri Manzil, Mera Saaya, etc. The film also faced criticism from some sections of the audience and critics who found it boring, slow-paced, or unrealistic.
The film achieved many feats due to its artistic excellence and technical brilliance. The film was praised for its cinematography by Dwarka Divecha, who captured the beauty and grandeur of ancient India with his camera. The film was also praised for its music by Shankar-Jaikishan, who composed some of the most melodious and memorable songs of Hindi cinema. The film was also praised for its dance by Hiralal and Vyjayanthimala, who performed some of the most graceful and expressive dances of Indian classical and folk styles.
The film achieved many awards and recognition from various national and international forums. The film won two Filmfare Awards: Best Music Director for Shankar-Jaikishan and Best Cinematographer for Dwarka Divecha. The film was also nominated for six other Filmfare Awards: Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Lyricist, and Best Playback Singer (Female). The film was also India's official entry for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1967 but was not nominated. The film was also screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 1966 and received a standing ovation from the audience. The film was also selected by the British Film Institute as one of the 360 classic films of world cinema.
The Themes and Messages of Amrapali Film
How does the film portray love, war, peace, and religion?
The film portrays love, war, peace, and religion as the main themes that drive the story and the characters. The film shows how love can be a source of joy and sorrow, a bond and a barrier, a strength and a weakness. The film depicts the love story of Ajatashatru and Amrapali as a tragic romance that is doomed by their conflicting loyalties and destinies. The film also shows how love can inspire courage, sacrifice, and compassion in the face of adversity and violence. The film shows how war can be a cause of destruction and suffering, a result of greed and ambition, a challenge and a duty. The film depicts the war between Magadh and Vaishali as a brutal and relentless conflict that devastates both sides. The film also shows how war can test the morals, values, and beliefs of the people involved. The film shows how peace can be a goal and a hope, a reward and a responsibility, a state and a process. The film depicts the peace that Buddha preaches as a way of life that transcends the cycle of birth and death, pain and pleasure, attachment and aversion. The film also shows how peace can be achieved through wisdom, compassion, and non-violence. The film shows how religion can be a source of guidance and inspiration, a path and a destination, a faith and a practice. The film depicts the religion that Buddha teaches as a universal doctrine that appeals to all kinds of people regardless of their caste, class, gender, or background. The film also shows how religion can influence the personal and social lives of the people who follow it.
What are the moral dilemmas and conflicts faced by the characters?
The moral dilemmas and conflicts faced by the characters of Amrapali film are as follows: Ajatashatru faces the dilemma of choosing between his love for Amrapali and his duty as a king. He also faces the conflict of being loyal to his minister Devadatta or following Buddha's teachings. He also faces the challenge of overcoming his pride, anger, and violence. Amrapali faces the dilemma of choosing between her freedom as a courtesan and her commitment as a royal courtesan. She also faces the conflict of being faithful to her lover Ajatashatru or serving her country Vaishali. She also faces the challenge of renouncing her worldly life and becoming a nun. Devadatta faces the dilemma of choosing between his ambition as a minister and his kinship with Buddha. He also faces the conflict of being loyal to his king Ajatashatru or betraying him for his own interests. He also faces the challenge of accepting Buddha's teachings or opposing them.
How does the film reflect on the human condition and society?
The film reflects on the human condition and society by showing how they are affected by love, war, peace, and religion. The film shows how human beings are capable of both good and evil, happiness and misery, wisdom and ignorance. The film shows how human beings are driven by their desires, emotions, thoughts, and actions. The film shows how human beings are connected by their relationships, roles, duties, and rights. The film shows how human beings are influenced by their culture, history, environment, and circumstances. The film shows how human beings can change themselves and the world around them for better or worse. The film shows how human beings can find meaning and purpose in their lives through love, war, peace, and religion. The Legacy and Influence of Amrapali Film
How has the film influenced other films and media?
The film has influenced other films and media that have depicted the story of Amrapali or similar stories of historical romance. Some examples are:
Vaishali (1988), a Malayalam film directed by Bharathan and starring Suparna Anand and Sanjay Mitra. The film is a remake of Amrapali film with some changes in the plot and characters.
Amrapali (2002), a Bengali TV series directed by Ravi Ojha and starring Nandana Sen and Bikram Saluja. The series is an adaptation of Amrapali film with some additions and modifications.
A Courtesan with Flowered Skin (2014), a Japanese film directed by Keisuke Toyoshima and starring Yumi Adachi and Yasushi Fuchikami. The film is loosely based on the story of Amrapali and Ajatashatru, set in the Edo period of Japan.
Amrapali (2016), a Hindi web series directed by Ravi Rai and starring Pooja Banerjee and Ankit Arora. The series is a retelling o