Shakuntala (1965 film)

Shakuntala is a 1965 Indian Hindi-language mythological drama film, directed by Mohan Segal. The film is based on the famous play Abhijnanashakuntalam by Kalidasa.

The film stars Rajkumar, Saira Banu, and Sohrab Modi in leading roles. Its narrative revolves around the love story of Shakuntala, a beautiful hermit girl, and King Dushyanta. Their romance blossoms in a secluded hermitage, leading to a secret marriage and pregnancy. Dushyanta leaves Shakuntala with a promise to return, but due to a curse, he forgets her entirely. The film depicts Shakuntala's journey through trials and tribulations, including her eventual reunion with Dushyanta and their son Bharata.

The music for Shakuntala (1965) was composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, with lyrics by Hasrat Jaipuri and Shailendra. The film is noted for its elaborate sets, costumes, and its depiction of Indian mythology. It was considered a significant adaptation of Kalidasa's classic work for the Hindi cinema audience.