Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan starrer 2005 romantic-drama Parineeta will be getting a theatrical re-release. The film, which was adapted from Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's iconic 1914 Bengali novel by the late Pradeep Sarkar, is all set to re-release on its 20th anniversary on August 29. It also starred Sanjay Dutt and Rekha in pivotal roles.
PVR INOX and Vinod Chopra Films announced on Wednesday that the restored version of the film will be screened in theatres across India.
Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who produced the film said it holds a special place in his heart.
"It's more than just a film-it's a journey of love, elegance, and soulful music. Every frame carries its own emotion, evolving with the story in a way that touches something deep within. And now, in the restored and remastered 8k version, the visuals are even richer and the beautiful locations even more beautiful,” he said.
Pradeep Sarkar set the movie in 1960s Kolkata. Vidya and Saif play childhood friends -- Lalita and Shekhar -- who gradually fall for each other. Shekhar's father is eyeing the house of Lalita's uncle as he hopes to build a hotel there. Lalita comes to know of this plan but a family friend, Girish, played by Sanjay Dutt, steps forward to help her. This leads to a major misunderstanding between the two lovers.
Vidya, who made her Bollywood debut with the movie, said the film's re-release was an emotional moment for her.
"Parineeta is where it all began... Every frame of the film carries a piece of my heart, and I'll forever be grateful to Pradeep da and Mr Vinod Chopra for believing in me. I owe so much of who I am as an actor to this film. Even after all these years, people remember the film, the songs, and how it made them feel. People say every frame in the film is like a painting and that is Pradeep Sarkar's magic. So I do hope people and the new generation discover old-world love through Parineeta,” she said in a statement.
Saif remembered the film as a turning point in his career. “It allowed me to explore a quieter, more restrained side of my personality. It had elegance, depth, and a certain old-world charm that's rare to come by. Working with Vidya, Pradeep da, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Sanju (Sanjay Dutt), and the entire team was truly special. I have very warm memories of the film, and it will always hold a meaningful place in my journey.”
The film is also memorable for Shantanu Moitra's compositions be it ‘Piyu Bole’, ‘Kasto Mazz’, ‘Kaisi Paheli Zindagani’, ‘Raat Hamari To’ and ‘Soona Mann Ka Aangan’.