Overview of "Aag" (1948)
Released in 1948, Aag is a romantic psychological drama that marks the directorial debut of Raj Kapoor, who also stars in the film alongside Nargis, Kamini Kaushal, Premnath, and Nigar Sultana. The story follows Kewal (Raj Kapoor), a young man obsessed with theater, who dreams of running his own stage company. However, his personal life becomes entangled with heartbreak and tragedy, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and artistic ambition.
The film’s narrative structure and visual storytelling were ahead of its time, showcasing Kapoor’s influences from European cinema and his signature blend of romance and melancholy.
The music, composed by Ram Ganguly, features memorable songs like "Zinda Hoon Is Tarah" and "Dekh Chand Ki Or", which complement the film's emotional depth.
Though not a major commercial success at the time, Aag is now regarded as an important milestone in Indian cinema, laying the foundation for Raj Kapoor’s later masterpieces. It remains a bold and experimental film, reflecting themes that Kapoor would continue to explore in his illustrious career.