Umrao Jaan is a cult classic film of cinema. It has been 44 years since this film hit the screens. This film directed by Muzaffar Ali remains a favourite of the audience even today with its story soulful music and Rekhas brilliant acting. You can watch Umrao Jaan once again in theaters. The films director Muzaffar Ali revealed in a conversation with India Today that Rekha finally immortalized Umrao but she was not his first choice. Who was the first choice for Umrao Jaan? He said “Initially I thought of Smita Patil. She had worked with me in Gaman and she would have done a good job.” The director recalled “But then we felt maybe we need someone who is a little more feminine.” Eventually Rekha was finalised. Ali shared “When I read the character and lived it listened to the film recorded in Salma Siddiquis voice again and again it was Rekha. Her eyes had the power to tell the story where you fall and rise in the same moment. What Rekha did I dont think anyone else could have done it.” How Rekhas presence uplifts Umrao Jaan He further added that the casting was important... and I think Rekhas presence helped. But I believe more than her people showed a lot of empathy with the character. That helped. Umrao Jaan also stars Naseeruddin Shah and the late Farooq Sheikh.