The first part of a new series exploring the art, craft and aesthetics of K. Viswanath's acclaimed body of cinema. This is The Dharma Dispatch's tribute to the legend who joined the ranks of the immortals today.
The Indian aesthetic tradition based on universal principles, was systematically destroyed and has left its pernicious imprint on Indian cinema as well.
Stability is the bedrock of the Indian aesthetic tradition. Its gradual erosion is one of the singular factors contributing to the decline and downfall of this tradition. Nowhere is this more visible than in Indian cinema.
In a 1913 essay of great historical and cultural value, the pioneering Indian filmmaker, Niranjan Pal elaborates his vision for using the emerging medium of cinema to showcase the best aspects of Indian culture. Niranjan Pal was the son of the great freedom fighter, Bipan Chandra Pal.