Legendary Actress Waheeda Rehman Lauds India's Film Preservation Initiatives

On November 16, 2025, the 10th Film Preservation and Restoration Workshop India 2025 commenced in Odisha, drawing in cinema legends, dignitaries, and film enthusiasts. The highlight of the opening ceremony was the presence of legendary actress Waheeda Rehman, who lauded the work of the Film Heritage Foundation.

Rehman expressed her pride in the foundation's mission to preserve India's cinematic legacy, stating, "I want to congratulate Film Heritage Foundation for what they are doing... I am so proud of him (FHF Director Shivendra Singh Dungapur) that he is going to preserve all our movies forever... we won't be there but the movies will be there, the photographs will be there."

The workshop also recognized the contributions of individuals dedicated to safeguarding India's film heritage. Robin Baker received the Outstanding Achievement Award for his 35-year-long commitment as a cinephile, film programmer, and champion of archival films. Surya Deo and Sanjoy Patnaik were conferred the Champion of Film Heritage Award for their work in documenting and preserving Odia cinema. Additionally, Rashmiranjan Mohapatra was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for interpreting classic Odia films through the traditional medium of Pattachitra.

Through its unwavering dedication to film preservation and restoration, the workshop continues to celebrate and safeguard India's rich cinematic legacy, ensuring that the past and present of Indian cinema converge for future generations.