The Light of Asia

Overview

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

Seeta Devi

Gopa

Himansu Rai

Gautama

Sarada Ukil

King Suddhodhana

Rani Bala

Queen Maya

Prafulla Roy

Devadatta

Modhu Bose

Mrinalini Devi

Sunalini Devi

Sushil Ghosh

Sundar Rajam