IMTIHAN, 1974, a social drama film directed by Madan Sinha, is a powerful story about an idealistic college lecturer, Pramod Sharma (Vinod Khanna), whose unwavering commitment to values and honesty becomes a test (‘Imtihan‘) against systemic corruption and student indiscipline. He successfully reforms a volatile college environment, fights the destructive influence of wealthy, careless parents and corrupt leaders, and earns the love of the sincere student Madhu (Tanuja).
His integrity is severely challenged when his compassionate efforts to reform a spoiled student, Rita (Bindu), lead to false accusations and her tragic suicide. Pramod’s ultimate victory is a moral one, as he exposes the rot in society, inspires true change in the college, and proves that honesty and courage can triumph over insult and deceit. The film, produced in 1974, was also a musical success, with hits like “Ruk Jaana Nahi Tu Kahi Haar Ke,” composed by the legendary duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal.
Key Characters And Story Summary
Pramod Sharma (Vinod Khanna) as Ideal Professor, an honest, strong-willed, and highly respected lecturer, who believes in the transformative power of education, discipline, and real values. He joins a college plagued by undisciplined, spoiled, and violent students. He takes on the responsibility to reform the college, facing strong opposition from bad influences, including corrupt leaders and careless wealthy parents.
Madhu (Tanuja): The Supporter
A sweet and simple college student is impressed by Pramod’s principles and falls in love with him. She stands by him throughout his trials. Rita (Bindu): The Reformed Student. A student from a rich family who initially manipulates boys, behaves wildly, and disrespects teachers. Pramod treats her with kindness, slowly changing her character until she begins to admire him.
The Ultimate Test (Imtihan)
Rita is molested by her trusted boyfriend. Broken and humiliated, she seeks comfort from Pramod. Pramod supports her publicly, which sparks false rumors of an affair and leads to Pramod being wrongly accused and insulted. Unable to bear the shame and lies spread about her and Pramod, Rita commits suicide, which becomes the most significant test of Pramod’s life. Pramod remains strong, ultimately exposing the corrupt leaders, careless parents, and students who spread lies. The college finally recognizes Pramod’s greatness and reforms. Madhu stands by him, and their relationship is accepted. Pramod wins the moral battle.
Musical Highlights
The film’s success was greatly boosted by the music from Laxmikant-Pyarelal The featuring popular songs like Roz Shaam Ati Thi, Magar Aisi Na Thi” sung by Lata Mangeshkar, “Ruk Jaana Nahi Tu Kahi Haar Ke” by Kishore Kumar, which has become an inspirational classic.
Principal Correspondent, Prime Post
Vidya Sagar Chaturvedula is a passionate film enthusiast whose four-decade career spans multiple sectors, including media and industry. Fluent in Telugu, Hindi, and English, he has a deep appreciation for cinema, particularly films in those three languages. His passion goes beyond simple viewing; he enjoys analyzing directional skill, the emotional depth of actors’ performances, and the profound meaning embedded in dialogue. Mr. Sagar is known for his ability to clearly articulate and narrate his insightful film analyses after watching a movie.
Every walk of life we have to face tests or exams. This movie hero faces more than a fair share of it. But truth and righteousness gain the upper hand eventually.
Great songs. Vinod Khanna dealing with knife in the exam hall was fantastic.
Very Well Said Sir. Thank You.
One of the best of Vinod Khanna. Ruk jana nahin, Roj shaam aathi thi, very well done by LP.
This film imtihan is family oriented movie
Vinod Khanna a professor asimple man correct s
Students. Political. Clutches
And parents who spoils children
With their wealth under frofessor
Guidence he put every one in good path
Songs are good director .
Nice review