The 1995 Bollywood hit ‘Rangeela,’ starring Aamir Khan, Urmila Matondkar, and Jackie Shroff, will return to theaters on November 28 in a newly restored 4K HD version, marking three decades since its original release. The re-release aims to reintroduce the film’s narrative to contemporary audiences while appealing to those who experienced its initial impact.
Director Reflects on Rangeela’s Legacy
Ram Gopal Varma, who directed the musical drama, emphasized the film’s enduring significance in a statement. “‘Rangeela’ embodied the spirit of aspiration, showing that ordinary people can also dare to dream big. Its success demonstrated that rule-breaking cinema is often the most unforgettable,” he said.
The film originally explored themes of urban ambition and dreams through a story that resonated with audiences via AR Rahman’s memorable music, emotional storytelling, and distinctive visual style. Rahman’s soundtrack became a defining element of the film’s success.
Ultra Rewind Initiative Brings Classics Back
Sushilkumar Agrawal, CEO of Ultra Media, explained the motivation behind the restoration project. “For many, ‘Rangeela’ is a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of Bollywood. With Ultra Rewind, we’re bringing this beloved classic to modern audiences in a stunning 4K format, ensuring that its timeless charm continues to mesmerise audiences for years to come,” he stated.
The Ultra Rewind project represents a broader effort to restore and re-release classic Indian cinema using contemporary technology. ‘Rangeela’ becomes the second film to receive 4K treatment under this initiative, following earlier retrospectives of Guru Dutt’s work this year.
Previous Restorations Include Guru Dutt Classics
The project has previously brought restored versions of landmark films including ‘Pyaasa,’ ‘Sahib Biwi aur Ghulam,’ and ‘Kagaz Ke Phool’ back to theaters, demonstrating sustained interest in preserving Indian cinema’s heritage.
The November 28 re-release will allow audiences nationwide to experience ‘Rangeela’ theatrically with enhanced visuals and sound quality. The restoration process updates the film’s technical presentation while maintaining its original artistic vision, offering both longtime fans and new viewers an opportunity to witness this significant work of 1990s Indian cinema on the big screen.
