Retrospective of Indian Documentaries

A Night of Prophecy

Amar Kanwar

‘A Night of Prophecy’ is a film about poetry and songs, poets and singers. The film takes us to Indian States of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland and Kashmir. These are complex territories that have been home to severe conflict, where throats are cut and minds are taught to absorb slavery, bloodshed and oppression, where no reconciliation seems possible. And yet, there can be felt the fever of change. ‘A Night of Prophecy’ suggests that poetry can allow us to understand the histories and severity of conflict. Further, in poetry and image emerge the seeds of what is to become and what is to be done; poetry provides, that is, the simple moment of prophecy.

Amar Kanwar

Amar Kanwar is an independent documentary filmmaker from New Delhi. His recent films have been about ecology, politics, art, and philosophy. He has received seven awards for his work, and is a recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship in India.

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A Night of Prophecy

India
2002, 77', color, video

Directed by:
Amar Kanwar

Cinematography:
Ranjan Palit

Edited by:
Sameera Jain

Music:
Ajith Pillai , Sandeep Chatterjee

Producer:
Amar Kanwar

Produced by:
Amar Kanwar