Mumbai, May 20: ‘Madame Bhikaji Cama', a 20-minute documentary by award-winning film maker Mohi-ud-Din Mirza was screened at the films division here today. The documentary gives a glimpse of the life of the freedom fighter, who is considered the mother of Indian revolution. The lead role of Madame Cama, who is credited with designing the Indian flag, was played by Avantika Akerkar, who is researching on the life and times of Madame Cama.

The film reflects Madame Cama's passionate thought 'one god, one nation, one language, one community, one life and one hope', which illustrates her dream of a free India, and her tireless work to further India's cause for freedom in England, France and other countries. The film also shows her great influence on revolutionaries like Veer Savarkar, Lokmanya Tilak, Shyamji Krishna Varma, Lenin and others. Veer Savarkar compared her contribution to the freedom struggle to that of a faithful mother who stood by her child in the darkest hour.
Her last days at the Parsee general hospital were spent alone as none of her friends or relatives who she was eager to see, cared to visit her. She died unsung, unheard and unwept on august 12, 1936.

Mirza, a product of Institute of Film Technology (IFT) Chennai has over 100 short films to his credit. Among his significant works include the immensely successful 'Kamdhenu Redeemed', which won him a host of national and international awards including the national award for the best scientific film.
'Oval Crop', an educational film won him his first national award in 1983, while 'Lolaab' a film set in the Kashmir Valley near the Line of Control, won him his third national award. He is currently working on a series of documentaries inspired by the prime minister's plans for economic development of Jammu and Kashmir.

Bureau Report