| | 1 | ''1953: Key Events''' |
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| | 3 | * The state of Andhra Pradesh, merging the former Central Provinces and Telangana, is formed, with the cessation of the CPI-led insurrection. |
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| | 5 | * Sheikh Abdullah, former Prime Minister of Kashmir, is arrested and imprisoned. Until 1975, Kashmir’s politics are largely determined by the central government. |
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| | 7 | * The Sangeet Natak Akademi is launched to support and fund music and theatre; it is the first of the three autonomous institutions intended to channel government spending on the arts. |
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| | 9 | * Do Bigha Zameen, showing the influence of Italian neo-realism, receives a special mention at Cannes (1954) and the Social Progress Award at Karlovy Vary. |
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| | 11 | * Prabhat Studio ceases production. |
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| | 13 | * Sharey Chuattar, the first film starring Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen. |
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| | 15 | * The Cinematograph Act is amended, extending the powers of various authorities to suspend exhibition of certificated films. |
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| | 17 | * The Film Federation of India accepts an Advertisement Code. |
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| | 19 | * The trade weekly Trade Guide (edited B. K. Adarsh) is started; it remains the main Hindi film trade paper. |
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| | 21 | * Filmfare inaugurates its annual awards. |