Rekha's unforgettable performance in Umrao Jaan is heading back to the big screen. A beautifully restored version of Muzaffar Ali's classic will premiere in Europe at the UK Asian Film Festival in London next week.
The film has been restored in 4K under the National Film Archive of India, with Prasad leading the restoration, giving fresh life to one of Indian cinema's most celebrated works. The screening will take place at the BFI IMAX and will be followed by a special talk with director Muzaffar Ali. According to the Instagram handle of the UK Asian Film Festival, the restored version of 'Umrao Jaan' will screen on May 7, 9 and 10 at the prestigious film festival.
At its heart, Umrao Jaan features an iconic performance by Rekha, who plays a Lucknow courtesan and poet navigating love, loss and fame.
The screening is part of a wider line-up at the festival, which this year revolves around the theme "Stories That Bind Us". The programme brings together a range of South Asian narratives, highlighting both established names and emerging voices.
Festival founder and director Pushpinder Chowdhry said the line-up aims to spotlight powerful storytelling while encouraging meaningful conversations. She noted that the festival continues to celebrate bold creative voices across generations.
Now in its 28th year, the festival continues to expand its cultural footprint. Among the highlights is the UK premiere of 'Baksho Bondi' (Shadowbox), directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi, and starring Tillotama Shome.
The 2026 edition is not limited to film alone. A live music event titled Magical Melodies will pay tribute to legendary names such as OP Nayyar, Dharmendra and Asha Bhosle.
Spotlight on British Asian voices
As part of its British Asian strand, screenings will also be hosted at the Kiln Theatre. This segment focuses on stories rooted in the lived experiences of South Asian communities in the UK.
One of the featured works is the British Punjabi drama 'Never Had A Chance', directed by Jazz Bhalla.
Creative director Samir Bhamra highlighted that the selection reflects the complexity of everyday life, ranging from intimate family narratives to bold new cinematic voices. He described storytelling as a way to reconnect and understand one another.
The festival will wrap up on May 10 with the UKAFF Awards. During the ceremony, Muzaffar Ali will be recognised with the Golden Flame Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his contribution to cinema.
Originally released in 1981, 'Umrao Jaan' is based on Umrao Jaan Ada by Mirza Hadi Ruswa. The story traces the journey of a courtesan in Lucknow as she rises to prominence while navigating the emotional and social challenges of her world.
The film earned widespread acclaim and went on to win four honours at the National Film Awards, including Best Actress for Rekha. It also secured three nominations at the Filmfare Awards, winning Best Director for Muzaffar Ali and Best Music Director for Khayyam.