Beenu Rajpoots film BANARAS: Kaba-E-Hindostan: Ghalibs Ode to Banaras wins the prestigious IDPA National Silver Award

Beenu Rajpoot, a versatile documentary filmmaker and researcher, has once again made headlines with her latest accolade. Her film 'BANARAS: Ka’ba-E-Hindostan: Ghalib’s Ode to Banaras' has been honoured with the IDPA National Silver Award, marking another significant achievement in her illustrious 15-year career. Rajpoot has captivated audiences with her evocative films, podcasts and books by consistently using her work to effect societal change.

Expressing her gratitude for the award, Beenu said, "I am thankful for this prestigious honour. I am overwhelmed that my film 'BANARAS: Ka’ba-E-Hindostan: Ghalib’s Ode to Banaras' has received the IDPA National Silver Award. It not only makes me happy but motivates me to bring more films like these to the audience.

" The film delves into the journey of renowned Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib to Banaras in 1827-1828, during which he developed a profound affection for the city of Ghats. Ghalib penned his famous masnavi, "Chiraag-i-dair" (Temple Lamp), in Persian, capturing the essence of Banaras. The poem, comprising 108 verses, metaphorically likens Banaras to a beautiful woman, with the Ganges serving as her mirror, and the rising sun symbolizing the red bindi on her forehead.

Ghalib, a Muslim by faith, exemplified a true secular spirit, transcending religious boundaries and expressing universal love and appreciation for the holy city of the Hindus. Reflecting on the film's creation process, the filmmaker highlighted the extensive research and dedication that went into its making.

"This is one of my favourite films. It took me two years to complete. The research work for this film was unmatched. Translating the Persian Masnavi into English or Hindi was a challenging task, but with the help of Persian experts, I was able to complete this project. I would like to thank my entire team for this film. We stayed in Banaras for many days for shooting," revealed Rajpoot.

The film not only traces Ghalib's physical journey to Banaras but also explores his spiritual and emotional voyage. Enraptured by the city's serene beauty and the Ganges, Ghalib stayed for months, nearly forgetting his initial purpose of travelling to Calcutta to plead for his pension. Ghalib, a liberal mystic and a great poet, chronicled his experiences, reflecting on the serenity of Banaras in his masnavi.

Moreover, the film has been receiving accolades from audiences and critics alike and is being screened in many Indian states. Rajpoot also expressed her gratitude to Kathak Guru Shovana Narayan for her dance production, 'Chirag-e-dair’ which inspired her to make the film. Summarizing the essence of her work, Rajpoot has beautifully captured the timeless beauty of Banaras, offering a perfect tribute to Ghalib and showcasing India's rich cultural heritage.

In conclusion, here are some popular lines from the Ghalib’s famous masnavi "Chiraag-i-dair" (Temple Lamp), in Persian used in the film:

Ibadat Khan -e- Naquoosianast

Hamana Kaab -e- Hindostanaast