Indian cinema’s rich legacy took the spotlight at WAVES 2025 during an engaging panel discussion titled “Beyond Nostalgia: The Business of Restored Classics.” Moderated by renowned film trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the session brought together industry leaders to discuss the importance, challenges, and future of restoring cinematic treasures for modern audiences.
Key Insights from the Panel
Kamal Gianchandani, a prominent figure in film exhibition and distribution, stressed the need to make classic films accessible on digital platforms. “So many of our films disappear from public memory because they aren’t readily available. Audiences constantly tell us they want to revisit the classics,” he said, urging the industry to preserve its foundational works amidst the influx of new content.
Shehzad Sippy, representing iconic cinema legacies, reflected on the unique storytelling of past decades. “Filmmaking was a different art then, and audiences today are curious to experience that era. But restoration demands significant investment of money, time, and skilled resources,” he noted, highlighting the resource-intensive nature of the process.
Jackky Bhagnani, film producer and actor, spoke about the unpredictable preferences of audiences. “People’s time is precious—they want quality content. What resonates is often subjective, seasonal, or driven by mood. But regardless of the era, we always strive to give our best,” he said, emphasizing the need for quality in restored content.
Prakash Magdum, Additional Director General, PIB & CBC, Ahmedabad, brought a policy perspective, detailing the National Film Heritage Mission. “Classic films are more than entertainment—they are a reflection of our collective cultural identity and heritage,” he said. He explained the meticulous process of film restoration, which involves overcoming challenges like temperature, humidity, and digital data preservation, while leveraging cutting-edge technology to stay true to the original vision.
The National Film Heritage Mission
Shri Magdum elaborated on the Government of India’s ambitious National Film Heritage Mission, which focuses on preserving, digitizing, and restoring India’s cinematic treasures. This initiative addresses the nostalgia of older generations and the curiosity of younger audiences, ensuring that classics remain accessible. Despite challenges like deteriorating film reels and complex digital preservation, the mission underscores the urgency of safeguarding India’s cultural heritage.
Why This Matters
The panel highlighted that restored classics are not just relics but vibrant carriers of culture, emotion, and history. As both older and younger generations show interest in revisiting iconic films, the business of restoration is gaining momentum. The fusion of technology, passion, and supportive policies is crucial to ensuring that India’s cinematic legacy continues to inspire.
Looking Ahead
The discussion at WAVES 2025 reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to preserving India’s cinematic heritage. By making classics accessible on digital platforms and investing in restoration, stakeholders aim to bridge generational gaps and celebrate the timeless art of Indian cinema.