Arising from the Surface(1980)
Arising from the Surface is a 1980 Indian Hindi-language experimental film directed by Mani Kaul. It stars Bharath Gopi, Vibhuti Jha, and M. K. Raina. The film is based on the writings of Hindi poet and essayist Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, blending his poems, essays, and short stories into a single cinematic text. It follows three characters — Ramesh, Madhav, and Keshav — as they wander through an urban landscape, engaging in philosophical and political conversations. The film defies traditional genre classification, moving between fiction, essay, and poetry. It was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1981 Cannes Film Festival, marking its international recognition. The film is noted for its experimental structure and its deep engagement with Muktibodh's intellectual universe.
Arising from the Surface (1980) OTT release date is not officially announced yet — GudVibe tracks its streaming availability daily.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 17 February 1980
- Director
- Mani Kaul
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 54m 0
Storyline
A middle-aged office clerk named Ramesh feels trapped by his routine life. He meets his friends Madhav and Keshav to talk about poetry, politics, and the meaning of existence. Together, they try to rise above the surface of daily life. But the city, their jobs, and their own doubts keep pulling them back.
“Rising from the surface of life.”