Light of Asia: Indian Silent Cinema 1912-1934

Book Details:

• Publisher: Niyogi Books

• Author: Suresh Chabria

• Language: English

• Edition: UK Edition

• ISBN: 9789383098026

• Pages: 340

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.5 x 0.9 inches

About the Book:

Light of Asia: Indian Silent Cinema, 1912-1934 by Suresh Chabria is a captivating exploration of the early years of Indian cinema, celebrating the centenary of Dadasaheb Phalke’s groundbreaking film Raja Harishchandra, which marked the birth of Indian cinema in 1913. This book offers an in-depth look at the nascent days of Indian filmmaking, delving into the first steps that laid the foundation for the thriving film industry that India boasts today.

With extensively researched and updated content, Light of Asia provides an insightful analysis of Indian silent cinema, complemented by archival records, essays by celebrated film historians, and stunning reproductions of silent film stills, posters, and other unique publicity material from the era. These materials, unearthed and restored by the National Film Archive of India, enhance the narrative, offering readers a visual journey into the past.

The book traces the evolution of Indian silent cinema as it transformed myth and fantasy into cinematic reality, capturing the interplay of light, shadow, and storytelling that made the era so magical. Through technological innovation and creative vision, Indian filmmakers of the silent era shaped a distinct cinematic language that would later influence the golden age of Indian cinema.

This book is not only a tribute to the Indian silent film era but also a celebration of its immense contribution to the cultural landscape of India, paving the way for the vibrant, exciting, and ever-evolving world of Indian cinema that thrives today.

Written by film historian, curator, and writer Suresh Chabria, this volume is essential reading for film enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the origins of Indian cinema. Chabria’s deep knowledge, combined with contributions from other scholars like Ashish Rajadhyaksha and Virchand Dharamsey, makes this a definitive work on the subject.