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The Light of Asia (1925)

The Light of Asia (1925)

Drama
Release Date: 1925, October 22
Directors: Franz Osten, Himansu Rai
Countries: Germany, India
Production: Münchner Lichtspielkunst AG (Emelka), Great Eastern Film Corporation, Himansu Rai Film
Cast: Rani Bala, Himansu Rai, Seeta Devi, Sarada Ukil

Overview:

Living an indolent life in a luxurious palace, Prince Gautama (Rai) is insulated by his family from the harshness of the world outside. But he is destined to learn greater truths: shocked to discover the pain and suffering of so many in his kingdom, he abandons his privileged existence, and his wife Gopa (Seeta Devi), to become a wandering teacher, eventually finding enlightenment and founding Buddhism. Featuring superimposed images and deep-focus shots that were highly impressive for the time, Light of Asia astutely combines a deeply felt spirituality with the surefire attraction of Indian exotica, which helped make it a considerable success in Europe.