Birth of Shri Krishna 1918
Dhundiraj Govind Phalke's *Birth of Shri Krishna (1918)* is a remarkable early Indian fantasy-drama that blends mythology with silent-era cinema magic.
Director: Dhundiraj Govind Phalke
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Birth of Shri Krishna (1918)* about?
*Birth of Shri Krishna* is a mythological short film that dramatizes the divine birth of the Hindu god Krishna. It opens with Krishna's emergence from the river Kaliya, then explores Yashoda's maternal bond and Kamsa's ominous visions of his downfall. The film blends spiritual reverence with cinematic innovation.
Who directed *Birth of Shri Krishna*?
*Birth of Shri Krishna* was directed by Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema.
Who stars in *Birth of Shri Krishna*?
The film features Bhagirathibai, D.D. Dabke, Neelkanth, Mandakini Phalke, and Purshottam Vaidya as the key cast members.
Is *Birth of Shri Krishna (1918)* worth watching?
As an early silent-era mythological film, *Birth of Shri Krishna* is more of a historical curiosity than a modern spectacle. However, its cultural significance, Phalke's groundbreaking direction, and the glimpse into India's cinematic past make it a fascinating watch for classic film and mythology enthusiasts.
How long is *Birth of Shri Krishna*?
*Birth of Shri Krishna* runs for 12 minutes.
About Birth of Shri Krishna (1918) — India's earliest Krishna film and a silent-era legend
Dhundiraj Govind Phalke's *Birth of Shri Krishna (1918)* is a remarkable early Indian fantasy-drama that blends mythology with silent-era cinema magic. The 12-minute film opens with a serene riverbank invocation to the divine, where the divine child Krishna emerges from the waters on the demon snake Kaliya's back, symbolizing his cosmic power. The story then shifts to Yashoda's tender lullaby scene, where she cradles the sleeping god in her arms, dreaming of him as the playful Gopala. Meanwhile, Kamsa's feverish visions of his own death—decapitated heads rising and falling—unfold in a surreal, nightmarish sequence, contrasting the innocence of Krishna's birth with the looming tyranny of his uncle. Phalke's visionary direction and mythological storytelling lay the foundation for Indian cinema's spiritual and artistic traditions.
This silent short film captures the dichotomy of divine grace and human struggle, all while showcasing the early pioneers of Indian filmmaking. With its ethereal visuals and emotional depth, *Birth of Shri Krishna (1918)* remains a treasure for classic film enthusiasts and mythology lovers alike.