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The first sound film in Indian cinema, it made heavy use of song, dance, and music, establishing conventions that continue into modern Indian films. Written by Joseph David and directed by Ardeshir Irani, the film centers on the heated rivalry between the two wives -- Navbahar and the evil Dilbahar -- of an aging king. When a fortuneteller informs the two that Navbahar will bear her husband's heir, Dilbahar seduces army commander Adil (Vithal). She sets out to poison his family, resulting in Adil getting thrown in jail and his only daughter, Alam Ara (Zubeida), being given to a band of nomads who raise her. Years later, these same nomads invade the kingdom, release Adil from jail, and reveal Dilbahar's evil deeds. Alam Ara ends up marrying the prince of the kingdom.