At first glance, these might look like pieces of junk but a closer look and some research will tell you that the recently discovered artefacts at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) are fragments of India's cinematic history. The FTII campus in Pune housed the erstwhile Prabhat Studio at one time. A few days ago, an employee of FTII, Nitin Patki, found some old artefacts at the campus and further checking resulted in confirming that these were used in old films once. The artefacts found include a restraining chain, handcuffs, four different types of microphones, a lamp, bell, a huge bulb and Rajdand (Royal Staff). All these are said to be used in various films shot during 1930s and the 40s.

While the bulb was found near the electrical department, the royal staff was discovered near the carpentry department and other material was found near the old sound studio. Most of these artefacts were either in the basements or lofts of these old buildings housed in the campus. “The institute is a place of heritage value, tracing its roots to the Prabhat era. So, whatever is unearthed here is sure to have historic importance. We value all such finds, preserve them and display them for public viewing,“ said Bhupendra Kainthola, the director of the institute.

Prabhat Studio, which shifted to Pune from Kolhapur in 1933, had made 37 movies, including silent and talkies (sound films). Of these, 11 were made in Kolhapur and 26 were made in Pune. While some of he artefacts, like the royal staff, bell and he glass of he lamp, have been given for cleaning, the rest of the artefacts are set to go to heir museum, which houses other such collectables.

The mic that was found is said to be used in Apradhi, a 1949 film featuring Madhubala. “In the movie, Madhubala portrays the role of a radio singer. In the beginning of the movie itself you can see her using this mic,“ said Patki, a video projectionist who is conducting research to find out all such artefacts. He is using documentation, posters and videos to find out the missing artefacts. The restraining chains and the handcuffs are said to be used in Amar Jyoti, a 1936 movie starring Durga Khote, Chandra Mohan and Shanta Apte. Chandra Mohan is shown to be restrained by these cuff and chains in the film.