"Manthan" is a 1976 Hindi film set in rural India. The story revolves around Dr. Rao, an urban-educated man, who endeavors to establish a milk cooperative in a small village. He faces opposition from both the privileged class, who fears losing control over the villagers, and the villagers themselves who are skeptical of his intentions. After various challenges, the villagers start to understand the benefits of cooperative farming.
The film is noteworthy for its funding method, having been financed by 500,000 farmers who donated Rs. 2 each. This unique crowd-funding method was the first of its kind in the Indian film industry and was initiated by the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation. Its song, "Mero Gaam Katha Parey", became popular around the country and was later used in the Amul Milk advertisements, further signifying the connection between the film and the dairy industry.
The lead role of Dr. Rao was played by Girish Karnad, who was already an established actor and playwright at the time. His performance in "Manthan" further cemented his reputation in the industry. The film was directed by Shyam Benegal, a prominent figure in the New Indian Cinema movement. Benegal continued to make socially relevant films, and Karnad went on to have a successful career in acting and playwriting, becoming one of the most respected figures in Indian arts and literature.