Umrao Jaan Re-release: When and where to watch Rekha's period musical drama in 4K?

Rekha, an absolute gem of the cinema industry, has done several blockbuster and hit films in her celebrated career. Umrao Jaan, a critically acclaimed film of Rekha, was released in 1981, and the period musical drama is all set to re-release in June 2025. From re-release date to cast, plot, and more, know everything about the film. 

Umrao Jaan re-release details

Rekha's classic period musical drama, Umrao Jaan, is all set to be re-released in theaters on June 27 in a resplendent 4K restoration. The 4K restoration of the film has been done by NFDC- NFAI. To mark this re-release, director Muzaffar Ali is also unveiling a limited-edition coffee table book that offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into the making of Umrao Jaan.

Featuring never-before-seen photographs, costume sketches, calligraphy, poetry, and personal anecdotes from the set, the book is a collector's item and a deeply reflective tribute to the artistic vision of the film.

Stream Rekha's iconic movies, such as Khubsoorat, Khoon Bhari Maang, Jeevan Dhaara, and more on OTTplay Premium!

Rekha says her 'heart is full' as Umrao Jaan sets for re-release

The veteran actress said that Umrao Jaan is not just a film she acted in but the character lives within her, breathes through her, even now. 

"At the time, none of us could have imagined the timelessness of the film, the way it would gently etch itself into the soul of Indian cinema. To see it return to the big screen is like watching an old love letter being opened by a new generation. My heart is full," she said. 

Muzaffar Ali on Umrao Jaan re-release

Speaking about the re-release, the filmmaker said that Umrao Jaan was not just a film—it was a journey into the soul of a lost culture, a forgotten tehzeeb. 

"Through her pain, poetry, and grace, we tried to resurrect the elegance of an era where love and longing spoke in verse. I had actors who brought a lot of heft to their characters, and then there was Rekha, who lived Umrao Jaan and truly immortalised it."

Ali also said that he is thrilled that the film is back on the big screen for a whole new generation to discover a time and culture that's very much a part of our being. 

About Umrao Jaan

Umrao Jaan stars Rekha as Amiran, a young girl sold into a brothel and renamed Umrao Jaan. The film follows her journey as she becomes a famous courtesan and poet in Lucknow. Umrao's life is marked by love, loss, and hardship, including her relationships with Nawab Sultan and Faiz Ali.

The film also features Farooq Shaikh, Naseeruddin Shah, Raj Babbar, Shaukat Azmi, and others.