धर्मात्मा

Dharmatma (The Holy Man) is V. Shantaram's devotional epic about Sant Eknath, the sixteenth-century Marathi saint-poet who challenged caste orthodoxy by serving an untouchable and sharing water with a Muslim. Prabhat Film Company's production starred Bal Gandharva — the legendary Marathi stage actor and female-role specialist — as Eknath, giving the role an extraordinary classical authority. The film's sixteen songs, composed by Master Krishnarao and sung by Bal Gandharva, Vasant Desai, Ratnaprabha and others, were landmarks of devotional film music. It was recognized as a milestone in Indian cinema for the meeting of classical music tradition with the new film medium.

Sixteen songs composed by Master Krishnarao with lyrics by Narottam Vyas. Singers included Bal Gandharva, Vasant Desai, Ratnaprabha, Vasanti and Master Chhotu. Notable songs: 'Aaj Bhaag Jaag Gaye Logo Hamare', 'Dhanya Dhanya Naaro Jaati', 'Sab Kehte Jisko Neecha'. Classical Marathi-Hindustani blend.

Considered a milestone in Indian cinema for uniting classical music tradition with the film medium. Bal Gandharva's screen debut in a major role gave Hindu devotional film its greatest early performance. Prabhat's technical and artistic excellence here would define the studio's reputation. V. Shantaram's social messaging — the saint's defence of untouchables — gave the film continued relevance.