BROOKLINE, MA — The historic Coolidge Corner Theatre will host a special screening of the acclaimed documentary 6-A Akash Ganga on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM, followed by a post-screening Q&A with the film’s award-winning director, Nirmal Chander. The film is produced by Annapurna Devi Foundation.
The film, directed by Nirmal Chander and co-edited by Reena Mohan, both filmmakers from Delhi, India, tells the poignant and powerful story of Annapurna Devi, one of the most gifted yet reclusive figures in Indian classical music—and the wife of legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar.
A Legend in the Shadows
6-A Akash Ganga explores a deeply human narrative: Annapurna Devi, a master of the surbahar and a revered guru, gave up public performances in the 1950s to preserve her marriage with Ravi Shankar, whose rising global fame became increasingly overshadowed by her own growing reputation. Her silence was not due to a lack of talent, but rather a choice rooted in love, sacrifice, and societal expectation.
The film delves into this decision and its lasting impact on her life and the Indian classical music world. Through her devoted disciple, Nityanand Haldipur, and rare archival materials, the film paints an intimate portrait of a woman whose brilliance was often eclipsed by the very forces that shaped her destiny.
From India to Boston
Following its warm reception at a private screening in Hubli, India—hosted by a local foundation—the film now makes its Boston debut at the Coolidge. While the filmmakers were able to attend and present the film in Hubli, they will also be present in person at the Boston screening, offering attendees a rare opportunity to engage with director Nirmal Chander in a Q&A session following the film.
The film runs 1 hour and 20 minutes, and is presented in Hindi with English subtitles.
Nirmal Chander is a highly respected figure in Indian documentary cinema, with three National Awards and a career spanning over three decades. His previous works have aired on BBC and Indian national television. His 2019 documentary Moti Bagh was India’s official entry for the Oscars.
Chander is known for his sensitivity in storytelling and his ability to capture nuanced cultural and personal themes with authenticity and grace.
A Fitting Venue: The Coolidge Corner Theatre
The Coolidge Corner Theatre, a cherished cultural institution located in Brookline, is one of the nation’s most prominent independently operated cinemas. Since 1933, it has offered an eclectic slate of independent, foreign, documentary, and art-house films. Its mission-driven programming and stunning art deco architecture make it an ideal venue for presenting impactful documentaries like 6-A Akash Ganga.
With this screening, the Coolidge continues its tradition of hosting films that spark meaningful dialogue and showcase underrepresented voices in global cinema.
Event Details:
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What: Screening of 6-A Akash Ganga
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When: Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM
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Where: Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline, MA
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Language: Hindi (with English subtitles)
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Runtime: 1hr 20mins
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Post-screening: Q&A with Director Nirmal Chander.
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Tickets: Check availability at coolidge.org (Note: Some screenings may sell out)
