To celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Shakti Samanta, Ultra Play OTT has launched a month-long festival featuring 32 of his iconic films, many digitally restored for modern audiences. The curated lineup includes classics like Aradhana, Amar Prem, and Kati Patang, reaffirming Samanta’s enduring influence on Hindi cinema.
The Hindi-language streaming platform Ultra Play, part of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, is commemorating the centenary of Shakti Samanta—one of Bollywood’s most celebrated filmmakers—with a special festival titled “Shakti Samanta@100: A Celebration of Timeless Cinema.” Running throughout January 2026, the event showcases 32 handpicked films from his illustrious career, many of which have been digitally restored to enhance picture and sound quality.
Samanta, known for weaving emotion, music, and storytelling into unforgettable cinematic experiences, directed classics that defined the golden era of Hindi cinema. His works such as Aradhana, Amar Prem, Kati Patang, Howrah Bridge, and Kashmir Ki Kali continue to resonate across generations.
Notable Updates and Major Takeaways
Festival duration: Entire month of January 2026 on Ultra Play OTT.
Curated lineup: 32 films including Aradhana, Amar Prem, Kati Patang, An Evening in Paris, Amanush, and Balika Badhu.
Digital restoration: Enhanced visuals and sound for modern streaming audiences.
Cultural impact: Samanta’s films shaped mainstream Hindi cinema from the 1960s to 1980s.
Legacy celebration: Marks his 100th birth anniversary on January 13, 2026.
Conclusion
Ultra Play’s tribute not only honors Shakti Samanta’s cinematic genius but also ensures his timeless stories remain accessible to new generations. By blending nostalgia with digital innovation, the festival reaffirms his place as a pillar of Indian film history.
Sources: The Hans India, Deccan Herald, Ultra Media, IndiaWest, UNI India