Earth (1996 film)

Earth, also known as 1947: Earth, is a 1996 Indian historical drama film directed by Deepa Mehta. It is based on the novel Cracking India by Bapsi Sidhwa, which explores the Partition of India through the eyes of a young Parsi girl in Lahore.

The film stars Aamir Khan, Nandita Das, Rahul Khanna, and Maia Sethna. It depicts the escalating tensions and violence between Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs in the lead up to and following the partition of India in 1947. The story centers around Lenny (Maia Sethna), a polio-stricken girl, and her ayah (nanny), Shanta (Nandita Das), who is the object of affection for several men from different religious backgrounds. As religious fervor intensifies, the friendships and relationships of the characters are tested and ultimately fractured by the communal violence.

Earth is the second film in Mehta's "Elements Trilogy," preceded by Fire (1996) and followed by Water (2005). The film was praised for its sensitive portrayal of the Partition and its impact on individuals and communities. It received several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.