Hum Ek Hain (1946 film)


Hum Ek Hain is a 1946 Indian Hindi-language film co-written and directed by P. L. Santoshi in his directorial debut. The film stars Durga Khote, along with Kamala Kotnis, Dev Anand, Rehana and Rehman in their cinematic acting debut. It was released on 8 June 1946.

Plot

Zamindari Ma, the old landlady of a village supports its people during a famine and raises three orphaned children of differing religions. The children, although encouraged to practice their separate religions, are taught to remain united at all times. Chhote Babu, who wants to marry Vidya, the girl who is engaged to Zamindari Ma's biological son Shankar, sows discord and hatred, causing great enmity between the trio until reason prevails and they reunite.

Cast

Hum Ek Hain, which was produced under Prabhat Film Company, was the directorial debut of P. L. Santoshi, and the acting debut of Dev Anand, Kamala Kotnis, Rehana and Rehman in cinema. Santoshi also worked as writer alongside Saleh Mohammed Qureshi and Tony Lazarus. Cinematography was handled by Surendra Pai. Guru Dutt worked as an assistant director and choreographer.

Themes

Hum Ek Hain focuses on the idea of religious harmony in India, particularly Hindu–Muslim unity.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack was composed by the duo Husnlal Bhagatram, while all songs were written by P.L.Santoshi.

Release and reception

Hum Ek Hain was released on 8 June 1946. Filmindia, a magazine which was then revered and feared by the Indian film industry, wrote positively about the film: "It has a theme with a purpose that ought to find a response in the hearts of millions in our country." The reviewer also praised Anand's acting skills.