Home / Arts and Entertainment / Pioneering Chhath Puja on the Silver Screen: 'Bhaiya' (1961) Breaks New Ground
Pioneering Chhath Puja on the Silver Screen: 'Bhaiya' (1961) Breaks New Ground
25 Oct
Summary
- 'Bhaiya' (1961) was the first Indian film to feature a Chhath Puja song
- The film's Chhath Puja song 'Soopwe Nariyarwe Bajhli Moori Maiya' was sung by legendary Bollywood playback singers
- 'Bhaiya' set a precedent for future films to explore regional festivals and traditions
Sixty-four years ago, in 1961, Indian cinema witnessed a significant cultural milestone with the release of the film 'Bhaiya'. Directed by the renowned filmmaker Phani Majumdar, 'Bhaiya' holds the distinction of being the first film to feature a Chhath Puja song, bringing this revered festival to the silver screen.
The film's narrative revolved around a family drama, but what set it apart was its opening sequence, which depicted the Chhath Puja rituals, a first in Indian cinema. The film featured a poignant Chhath Puja song titled 'Soopwe Nariyarwe Bajhli Moori Maiya', which beautifully encapsulated the essence of the festival and its significance in the lives of devotees.
