Raja Harishchandra, released in 1913, marked the emergence of Indian cinema as a distinct cultural and industrial force. Directed by Dadasaheb Phalke, this silent feature established a framework for narrative storytelling using indigenous mythology. Phalke’s career bridged the gap between early experimental photography and the solidification of a national medium, spanning two decades of intensive technical development.
Early Technical Training
Born in 1870 in Nashik, Dhundiraj Govind Phalke received formal education in fine arts at the Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art in Bombay and the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. By 1890, he possessed advanced skills in oil painting, watercolor, and architectural modeling. His initial professional interests centered on printing technology, including photo-lithography and three-colour ceramic photography. He managed a printing press and acquired sophisticated machinery during a 1909 trip to Germany, though internal disputes led him to exit the printing industry shortly thereafter.
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Phalke’s shift toward filmmaking was triggered by a 1911 screening of a religious film in Bombay. Applying his background in photography, printing, and even stage performance—where he once practiced magic under the name Professor Kelpha—he mastered the mechanics of the camera. He managed multiple production roles, including editing, makeup, and set design. Between 1913 and 1937, he produced 94 feature-length films and 27 short films, relying on his deep familiarity with historical narratives to engage his audience.
Notable Works and Legacy
Beyond his directorial debut, Phalke's filmography includes Mohini Bhasmasur, Satyavan Savitri, Lanka Dahan, Shri Krishna Janma, Buddhadev, Setu Bandhan, and Gangavataran. These projects defined the silent era of Indian production. Following his death in 1944, the Government of India established the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which remains the country's highest cinematic honor, presented annually to recognize significant lifetime contributions to the industry.
Fast facts
- Born: 1870, Nashik
- Died: 1944, Nashik
- Citizenship: British Raj
- Debut film: Raja Harishchandra (1913)
- Total feature films produced: 94
- Total short films produced: 27
- Education: Sir Jamsetjee Jeejebhoy School of Art
- Field: Film director, screenwriter, producer, editor
Questions readers ask
Why is Phalke called the Father of Indian cinema?
He directed the first full-length Indian motion picture, Raja Harishchandra, which inaugurated the country's film industry.
What technical roles did he perform on set?
Phalke often managed his own film editing, set design, and makeup, utilizing his prior experience in printing and photography.
Achievements
- Notable work: How Films Are Made
- Notable work: Raja Harishchandra
- Notable work: Lanka Dahan
- Notable work: Satyavan Savitri
- Worked as film director, film producer and screenwriter
