In the world of Indian cinema, where glamour often overshadows the grit of filmmaking, photographer Ketaki Sheth’s latest exhibition, titled ‘Flashback,’ offers a rare glimpse into the contrasting realities of movie sets. A collection of 57 black-and-white photographs, taken between 1985 and 1993, showcases the intricate dance between the star-studded spectacle and the often-overlooked grunge behind the scenes.

One striking image captures the legendary actress Rekha, nestled on a plush sofa, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. Her iconic presence draws the eye, but it’s the surrounding elements—a tangle of lighting equipment, fragments of a glass table, and even a birdcage—that tell a deeper story. These details reflect the chaotic yet creative environment that defines the filmmaking process, where every frame is meticulously crafted amidst a whirlwind of activity.

Another poignant shot features actress Poonam Dhillon, captured within the confines of a Chevrolet, her smile framed perfectly by the car’s side window. The backdrop, a set of low-lying ruins, adds an unexpected layer to the scene, reminiscent of anthills, as Sheth describes it. Such images not only celebrate the stars but also highlight the often-unseen struggles and aspirations of those who work tirelessly off-camera. Sheth’s work invites viewers to ponder what lies beyond the glitz—an exploration of the untold stories that shape cinematic narratives.

Hosted by Devika Daulet-Singh of Photoink, the exhibition is not merely a showcase of artistic photography but a commentary on the film industry’s evolution over the decades. Sheth’s lens captures moments filled with intensity, revealing the faces of not only prominent actors but also the technicians and hopefuls who contribute to the magic of cinema. By freezing these fleeting instances, the photographs create new narratives that provoke curiosity and reflection among the audience.

‘Flashback’ serves as a reminder that behind every film is a tapestry of lives intertwined in the pursuit of storytelling. As the exhibition has concluded in Delhi, the impact of Sheth’s work continues to resonate, urging us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the complexities of filmmaking. In a country where cinema is revered as an art form, such an exploration of its foundational elements is both timely and essential, urging us to recognize the beauty in the blend of glamour and the unvarnished reality of the film industry.