Shyam Benegal Reflects on How Farmers Made Manthan a Success: Shyam Benegal, the veteran filmmaker who passed away on December 23, 2024, at the age of 90, leaves behind a legacy of socially conscious cinema. One of his most iconic films, Manthan (1976), is regarded as a cinematic masterpiece. The film, which starred Smita Patil, Naseeruddin Shah, and Shabana Azmi, not only captivated audiences but also went on to receive critical acclaim, including two National Film Awards.
In an interview with PTI earlier this year, Benegal shared a heartfelt story about the film’s success and the unique role the farmers of Gujarat played in its triumph. Manthan became a crowd-funded project, with 5 lakh farmers each contributing ₹2 towards its production. Their collective donation made the film possible, and their involvement didn’t end there. The farmers’ contribution extended to the film’s success in cinemas, as they became its first and most passionate audience.
Benegal fondly recalled how, once the film premiered in Saurashtra, Gujarat, it experienced a remarkable run. “The farmers, who had produced the film, helped make it successful. Once the film opened in Saurashtra, Gujarat, it had an excellent run. It was because of the farmers, they were the original audience of the film. They got their families,” he said.
The filmmaker elaborated on the unique ways the farmers helped ensure the film’s success. “They all would come on bullock carts to see the film, be it from Ahmedabad, Baroda or other places in Gujarat. We didn’t do any kind of publicity; the film developed its own momentum,” he recalled.
Manthan tells the story of the establishment of a cooperative dairy in Gujarat, drawing attention to the plight of farmers and the socio-economic divides of rural India. This socially relevant narrative resonated deeply with its primary audience – the very farmers who had contributed to its making.
The film’s impact was significant enough to earn two National Film Awards – for Best Feature Film in Hindi and Best Screenplay for Vijay Tendulkar. The film’s lasting cultural and artistic influence was further cemented when it was screened in the classics section at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. Restored by Prasad Corporation Pvt. Ltd. and L’Immagine Ritrovata Laboratory, Manthan received a fresh lease on life and introduced new generations to its timeless message.
Benegal’s tribute to the farmers who played such a vital role in the success of Manthan is a reminder of the collective power of community and the lasting impact of socially responsible cinema.