Mr. Sampath – The Printer of Malgudi

Mr. Sampath – The Printer of Malgudi is a 1949 novel by R. K. Narayan. It was adapted into the films Mr. Sampat (Hindi, 1952) and a Tamil film sharing the same title (1972).

To bring out the journal The Banner, Mr. Shrinivas, the editor, and Mr. Sampath, the printer, have to work together. The two entirely contrasting good-hearted characters forge a great partnership that makes The Banner the cynosure of all eyes in Malgudi. However, a situation arises and they have to temporarily discontinue the journal. Not to lay idle, they join hands with a film-making company where they have to trace varying paths, with their special bond still very deep. A love affair with the actress of the movie makes life difficult for the daring and over-ambitious Sampath, while the ethical Shrinivas has his problems of over-responsibility. Some sour incidents in the studio force Shrinivas to quit and revive his Banner with another printer, a thing that doesn't seem to bother Sampath caught entirely in the charm of the heroine. But Sampath comes back after the loss of the lady, his wealth, fame, and peace.

Mr. Sampath (Hindi) is one of the films featured in Avijit Ghosh's book 40 Retakes: Bollywood Classics You May Have Missed.