Amrut Manthan

Plot

The film opens with members of the "Chandika cult" meeting in a dungeon. King Krantivarma (Varde) has banned human and animal sacrifices from what he perceives as increasingly fanatical festivals dedicated to the goddess. As a reaction to this, the cult's High Priest (Mohan) orders the unfortunate Vishwagupta (Kelkar) to kill the King. He obeys, but is then betrayed by the High Priest and caught. His son Madhavgupta (Mane) and his daughter Sumitra (Apte) join forces with another priest Rajkumari (Tarkhad) to overthrow the High Priest.

Cast

Production

During the making of Amrut Manthan, Shantaram had used new techniques that he acquired while in Germany. Keeping the camera at a low angle with a circular track movement, he effectively made use of light and shades, particularly at the start of the film when the cult meets. It was the first film to be produced at Prabhat Film Company’s new sound-proof studio and was under the artistic direction of Fattelal. Through the film, Shantaram employed themes of "reformist Hinduism" to revoke the practice of sacrifices at festivals and prayers.

Chandra Mohan debuted in Amrut Manthan in his role as the high priest.

The film was the first Indian film to have a run of twenty-five weeks (silver jubilee) at a theatre.

Famous scenes

Amrut Manthan contains several famous scenes, including the twice-told legend of the churning of the seas. This legend is told once by the priest to show how evil must be exorcised, and then told again by a good General to show how demons often appear disguised as gods.

The film's strong political thrust provoked strong reactions among critics and viewers..