Indian film poster

The poster is dominated by the image of Umrao Jaan, a courtesan played by the actress Rekha (in a role which became her most famous). She is dressed in an elaborate white dance costume adorned with lots of jewellery. She is in a dance posture and gazes out of the poster. The background is blue and there is a glass chandelier behind her which gives a sense of the opulent setting. This image has since become one of the most famous in Indian cinema history. The English title runs across the bottom right hand corner.

This classic art-house film, Umrao Jaan (1981), is about a courtesan and stars Rekha. It was famed for its costumes, sets and music. Visual representations of courtesans usually focus on their heavily embroidered costumes and ornate jewellery. The figures are set against grand palace settings and are associated with wealth, luxury and refined society. These images are a reminder of a grand and cultured past. The courtesan is an indicator of tradition rather than immorality.

IS.112-1986