The Guru (1969 film)

The Guru is a 1969 Merchant Ivory Productions film directed by James Ivory. It stars Michael York, Saeed Jaffrey, Utpal Dutt, and Rita Tushingham. The film explores the cultural clash between Western rock music and traditional Indian classical music.

The plot revolves around a British rock star, Tom (York), who travels to India to learn the sitar from a renowned but reclusive guru (Jaffrey). Tom's initial enthusiasm clashes with the guru's rigorous discipline and the profound philosophical underpinnings of Indian music. He struggles to adapt to the guru's lifestyle and the demands of the instrument, while also navigating the cultural differences of India. The film examines themes of cultural appropriation, spirituality, the pursuit of artistic mastery, and the impact of Western influence on Eastern traditions. Leela Naidu plays the guru's daughter and provides Tom with some level of understanding of the Indian culture.