The debut of the first-ever encyclopedia dedicated to Hindi cinema at the World Book Fair sparked significant discourse among film enthusiasts. Despite the existence of encyclopedias covering Indian cinema, none had focused exclusively on Hindi cinema until now. Given Hindi’s prominence as India’s primary language and the predominant medium for filmmaking, the necessity for a comprehensive Hindi cinema encyclopedia had long been apparent.
Addressing this need, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) unveiled the Encyclopedia of Cinema in Hindi, the culmination of the dedicated efforts of acclaimed film journalist Shri Ram Tamrakar, often dubbed the ‘Encyclopedia of Cinema’. This unique publication caters to the curiosity of cinephiles and stands as a testament to Tamrakar’s legacy.
The unveiling event, hosted by IGNCA, saw the participation of notable personalities such as renowned producer and actor Rahul Mitra, senior journalist and author Avijit Ghosh, senior film critic Arnab Banerjee, and film historian and filmmaker Rajeev Srivastava. The panel discussion, moderated by Anurag Punetha, delved into the significance of the encyclopedia and its impact on Hindi cinema scholarship.
Although Sriram Tamrakar could not witness the inauguration, his enduring work now serves as a vital resource for cinema enthusiasts. Unlike previous iterations, which contained 250 or 500 entries, this encyclopedia boasts over 1,250 introductions of artists, musicians, directors, and technicians associated with Hindi cinema.
Additionally, it provides insights into the formation and activities of Indian film institutions, along with a comprehensive list of national award-winning films, solidifying its status as a definitive source on Hindi cinema.
During the discussion, Rahul Mitra provided a comprehensive analysis of societal shifts over the past decade and explored recent works by emerging filmmakers. He stressed the encyclopedia’s importance for both enthusiasts and students, highlighting its potential as an invaluable resource for understanding cinematic storytelling.
Anurag Punetha discussed societal changes and the evolving landscape of cinema, particularly with the rise of new filmmakers, while Avijit Ghosh commended the meticulous research evident in the encyclopedia. Arnab Banerjee hailed its arrival as a milestone in Hindi cinema literature, resonating with the deep affection of Indian audiences towards Hindi films.
Film historian and filmmaker Rajeev Srivastava emphasized the encyclopedia’s role in presenting an authenticated account of Hindi cinema’s history up to 2018. This landmark publication marks a significant stride in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Hindi cinema, ensuring accessibility for future generations of cinephiles and scholars alike.
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