NFAI acquires personal collection of Manipuri dancer
Source: Chronicle News Service / PIB

Mumbai, February 11 2022: A substantial collection of home movies of renowned Manipuri dancer, Savita Ben Mehta is now part of the National Film Archive of India.

The collection is in 8mm and super 8mm, a film format that is used to shoot private movies known as 'home movies' .

NFAI is adding this personal collection of Kodachrome and Kodachrome II home movies of the celebrated artists for preservation, as these foot1 ages can be important social documentation.

Kodachrome & Kodachrome II were introduced in 1935 and 1961respectively, specifically meant for amateur use, with the latter being superior to regular Kodachrome'.

Manipuri classical dance depicts the amorous relationship between Lord Krishna and Radha, characterised by its use of graceful costumes, expressive and delicate postures.

A peerless exponent of the Manipuri style of dancing, Savita Ben popularised it globally.

She had the highest qualifications and honours in Manipuri dancing.

Interestingly, she was born in Gujarat, educated in Arya Kanya Vidyalaya of Baroda, and also made a remarkable contribution in the held of ballet as the director and choreographer.

"I am happy to receive such a significant collection of 8 mm films, which itself is a rare addition to NFAI.

It is widely understood that 8mm & super 8mm movies were prevalent in the 1960s and 1970s.This collection might have footage of her dance performances along with footage shot in North-East India.

We would be digitizing these soon.

I am thankful to the family of industrialist Jay Mehta, who is nephew of Savita Ben Mehta", said Prakash Magdum, Director, NFAI.

Mehta was proficient in many languages and the footages have her handwriting in Manipuri language.

The donation was facilitated by noted art curators Deepthi Sasidharan, Director of Eka Archiving Services and Rachel Noronha.

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