Prateik Babbar recently experienced a moment of pride as he attended the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The actor was present for the screening of his late mother Smita Patil’s 1976 classic Manthan in the Cannes Classic Section. The event was a significant milestone for Indian cinema and Prateik, who reflected on his mother’s legacy and her contribution to the film industry.
Smita Patil’s Legacy Honored at Cannes
Prateik Babbar, son of Raj Babbar and Smita Patil, expressed immense pride and joy over Manthan being screened at Cannes. In an interview with India Today, he shared, “It was an extremely proud moment for me as her son. Being celebrated 37 years after her death at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival was a historic event for Indian cinema and the entire team of Manthan. I was overwhelmed.” Prateik’s sentiments highlight the enduring impact of Smita Patil’s work and her lasting influence on Indian cinema.
Smita Patil’s Untrained Brilliance
Prateik further elaborated on his mother’s raw talent, stating, “Everybody was in absolute awe of her brilliant and mature performance. She was all of 20 years old and untrained as an actor when she shot the film. This just proves that she was born to be one of the greatest actors to ever do it.” Smita Patil’s performance in Manthan stands as a testament to her natural acting prowess, despite her lack of formal training.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Prateik acknowledged the immense legacy he has to uphold. He said, “I have humongous shoes to fill, but I embrace it all and will never stop striving to be just like her. This moment will remain one of the most symbolic and iconic for me as her son… of her legacy, of our legacy, and on my journey in pursuit of greatness.” Prateik’s commitment to honoring his mother’s legacy is evident in his dedication to his craft.
Manthan’s Screening at Cannes 2024
Manthan was recently screened in the Cannes Classic section at Cannes 2024. The screening was attended by notable actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak. Naseeruddin Shah described the experience as “terribly emotional,” reflecting on the memories of friends and colleagues who were part of the film but are no longer alive. Shah mentioned, “Girish was a friend and my teacher. He was the director of FTII. Smita was a dear friend and so was Amrish. None of them are there any longer.”
Manthan was inspired by the Milk Revolution pioneered by the Padma Vibhushan recipient, late Verghese Kurien. Late veteran Girish Karnad’s character in the film was based on Kurien. The film’s screening at Cannes not only celebrated its historical and cultural significance but also highlighted the remarkable contributions of its cast and crew to Indian cinema.