Gangavataran

Gangavataran English The Descent of the Ganges is a 1937 Indian film by Dadasaheb Phalke, who is known as the father of Indian cinema. It was the first sound film and the last film to be directed by Phalke. When Phalke directed this film, he was 67 years old. He directed Gangavataran on behalf of Kolhapur Movietone.

The film tells the Hindu mythical story of river Gangess descent to Earth. For absolution of his ancestors sins Bhagiratha vows to bring the heavenly river Ganga to the Earth. Pleased with his tapasya, Lord Brahma agrees on sending Ganga. But He asks Bhagiratha to pursue Lord Shiva, as only Shiva could break Gangas fall. Proud with her heavenly presence, Ganga agreed to descend only because of Brahmas orders. Her pride made her believe that her fall would only destroy the Earth. But then Shiva trapped her tight in His hair and only let her go when she asked for forgiveness. Her gentle flow after release then absolved Bhagirathas ancestors.It took two years to complete the production of Gangavataran. The production cost of this film was two and a half lakhs rupees in contemporary currency value. The film was screened onAugust 1937 at the Royal Opera House in Mumbai. Gangavataran was the first Indian sound film to be screened at the Royal Opera House. ........

Source: Wikipedia