Reuters reports that Pakistan has agreed “in principle” to screen one of the great classics of Indian cinema, breaching a longstanding ban on cinemas showing Indian films.

In yet another sign of warming relations between South Asia’s erstwhile enemies, the film “Mughal-e-Azam” will become the first Indian movie to be legally screened in Pakistani cinemas once it gets approval from the censor board.

Set in the 16th century A.D. during the rule of the Muslim emperor Akbar, “Mughal-e-Azam” brings to life the tale of the doomed love affair between Crown Prince Saleem and the beautiful court dancer Anarkali.

Originally shot in black-and-white, Mughal-e-Azam was re-released in India in colour last year. Indians and Pakistanis regard the film with great affection, as it harks back to the glory of the Mughal Empire and their common heritage.

This only affects one film so far. But hopefully, where Mughal-e-Azam leads, other films will follow.

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