"Behula" (1921), directed by Camille Legrand, is a #silent film rooted in #Bengali folklore, specifically the "Manasa Mangal" epic. The narrative centers on #Behula, portrayed by Patience Cooper, whose husband, Lakhindar, is condemned by the snake goddess Manasa to die from a serpent bite on their wedding night. Demonstrating unwavering devotion, Behula embarks on a perilous journey along the Ganges River to plead with the gods for her husband's resurrection.
The film is notable for its pioneering role in early Indian cinema and for featuring Patience Cooper, one of India's first Anglo-Indian actresses and a prominent figure of the silent era. Born in #Calcutta in 1905, Cooper began her career as a stage dancer before transitioning to film, where she became one of the era's earliest superstars.

"Behula" was produced by Madan Theatres Ltd., a leading film production company in India during the early 20th century. Camille Legrand, a cameraman for Pathé Frères, collaborated with J.F. Madan to create this film, among others, during his time in India.

For decades, "Behula" was considered lost until the original negatives were discovered in France. The Fondation Jérôme Seydoux-Pathé undertook a meticulous restoration, preserving this significant piece of #cinematic history. The restored version has been screened at various film festivals and events, offering contemporary audiences a glimpse into early 20th-century Indian filmmaking.

While specific scenes from the 1921 "Behula" are not readily available online, the film has been showcased at events such as the Film Preservation & Restoration Workshop India 2022. These screenings often feature live musical accompaniments to recreate the silent film experience authentically.
"Behula" stands as a testament to the rich storytelling traditions of India and the early endeavors of its film industry, highlighting the collaborative efforts between Indian producers and international filmmakers during the silent era.
#silent #Bengali #Behula