The Light of Asia

movie

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.

Cast & crew

Franz Osten · Niranjan Pal · Sarada Ukil · Sunalini Devi · Sushil Ghosh · Sundar Rajam · Rani Bala · Prafulla Roy · Mrinalini Devi · Modhu Bose · Edwin Arnold · Seeta Devi · Himansu Rai

Studios & networks

Great Eastern Film Corporation · Himansu Rai Film · Münchner Lichtspielkunst AG (Emelka)