Historical Indian Art Films Collection

Description: Although not Indian, this film includes scenes of Indian art and culture during the reign of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, who visited India.

Fact: The film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was the first film ever to be allowed to shoot inside the Forbidden City in Beijing.

Description: Though primarily a love story, Devdas reflects the opulence and artistic expression of the early 20th century Bengal, with its lavish sets and traditional dance sequences.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive Bollywood productions at the time, with a budget of around $12 million.

Description: While focusing on the life of Emperor Ashoka, the film also highlights the art and culture of the Mauryan Empire, including Buddhist art.

Fact: Shahrukh Khan, who played Asoka, underwent extensive training in sword fighting for the role.

Description: Set during the British Raj, this film subtly incorporates elements of Indian folk art, music, and dance, reflecting the cultural resistance against colonial rule.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Description: This classic film is a testament to the grandeur of Mughal art, music, and courtly life, with its iconic song sequences and elaborate sets.

Fact: It was the first Indian film to be shot in Technicolor and took 16 years to complete.

Description: This film explores the life of a courtesan, showcasing the art of poetry, music, and dance in 19th-century Lucknow.

Fact: Rekha, who played Umrao Jaan, learned Urdu and classical singing for her role.

Description: While not directly about ancient art, this film captures the spirit of Indian history through the life of Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary whose story intertwines with the cultural and artistic expressions of the time.

Fact: Ajay Devgn, who played Bhagat Singh, lost 12 kilograms for the role to accurately portray the revolutionary's physique.

Description: This epic romance showcases the Mughal era's art, architecture, and music, highlighting the cultural synthesis that occurred during Akbar's reign.

Fact: The film's costumes were designed by Neeta Lulla, who won the National Film Award for Best Costume Design for this movie.

Description: This film captures the grandeur of Maratha art, architecture, and warfare, showcasing the intricate details of the period's cultural practices.

Fact: The film's set was so elaborate that it was turned into a tourist attraction after shooting.

Description: A visually stunning portrayal of the Rajput era, focusing on the art of war, poetry, and the legendary beauty of Rani Padmavati.

Fact: The film's production design was inspired by real-life Rajput architecture, and the sets were constructed to be historically accurate.