One of Gujarati cinema’s most defining films is set for a big-screen return, as Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya re-releases in theatres on January 9, 2026. The revival marks a renewed opportunity for audiences to experience the film’s emotional depth, music and cultural resonance in cinemas, where it first left an enduring impact.
The theatrical return is part of Ultra Rewind, an initiative by Ultra Media & Entertainment aimed at bringing culturally significant regional films from its library back to cinema halls. For this release, the film has undergone a detailed 4K restoration, enhancing picture and sound quality while retaining its original cinematic character.
Originally released in 1998, the film went on to create box-office history, earning around ₹22 crore during its initial run—an exceptional feat for Gujarati cinema at the time. It emerged as one of the highest ticket-selling Gujarati films of its era, helping restore audience confidence during a difficult phase for the regional industry and reinforcing the appeal of emotionally grounded storytelling. Featuring Hiten Kumar and Roma Manek, the film continues to be regarded as a benchmark for performance-led cinema in the language.
Directed and produced by the late Govindbhai Patel, the story traces the lives of Ram and Radha—childhood companions separated by family conflict and circumstance. Through their journey, the film explores migration, displacement and the enduring emotional pull of one’s homeland, themes that remain deeply relevant. The performances, particularly Hiten Kumar’s widely acclaimed portrayal and Roma Manek’s sensitive depiction of Radha, are supported by a strong ensemble cast that adds to the film’s lasting impact.
The film’s legacy is also closely tied to its music, composed by Arvind Barot, whose songs, rooted in folk traditions and emotional storytelling, became woven into Gujarati cultural life.
Speaking on the re-release, Sushilkumar Agrawal, CEO of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, said, “Desh Re Joya Dada Pardesh Joya is not just a successful film it is an emotional milestone for Gujarati cinema. Its original box-office journey and the bond it built with audiences reflect the timeless power of honest, rooted storytelling. Through Ultra Rewind, we are proud to bring this landmark film back to theatres, where it can be rediscovered and experienced in the way it was always meant to be”.
With the film’s return to cinemas, Ultra Media & Entertainment reinforces its commitment to preserving and celebrating regional cinema through theatrical revivals. Ultra Rewind focuses on films that continue to resonate across generations, positioning them not merely as nostalgic memories but as living cultural experiences.The initiative debuted last year with the theatrical re-release of Rangeela, followed by a retrospective marking the centenary of Guru Dutt, which brought several of his restored classics back to theatres. Building on that momentum, Ultra Rewind is now expanding its focus to regional cinema, beginning with the return of this landmark Gujarati film.
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