Awara: Winner of the National Award for the Best Writing on Cinema; On the Occasion of Raj Kapoor's 100th Birth Anniversary

Book Details

• Author: Gayatri Chatterjee

• Publisher: Penguin India

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780143029809

• Pages: 264

• Cover: Paperback

• Release Date: 05-08-2025

• Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.0 x 0.6 inches

About the Book

Raj Kapoor’s Awara is a landmark film that has become synonymous with Indian cinema. Released over half a century ago, the movie is widely regarded as a classic, cherished for its socialist themes, unforgettable romance, iconic music, and the portrayal of the ‘common man’ through its central character—the tramp. The film's enduring appeal was not just confined to India; it made Raj Kapoor a beloved figure in the Soviet Union, China, and the Middle East.

In this award-winning book, Gayatri Chatterjee offers a detailed analysis of Awara, exploring its multifaceted nature. She situates the film in its historical, social, and political context, examining key sequences, shots, and songs to uncover the multiple layers of meaning that contribute to its lasting legacy. The study goes beyond just appreciating the film's popular appeal, offering insights into its merits as pure cinema.

Featuring over 100 photographs, this book serves as an exhaustive study of one of the most significant films in Indian cinematic history.

About the Author

Gayatri Chatterjee is a distinguished writer and scholar of Indian cinema, with a particular focus on the social, political, and cultural impact of films. Her works delve into the nuances of Bollywood, offering a deeper understanding of the films that have shaped Indian popular culture.