Yesterday marked the 37th year since Smita Patil’s untimely passing, leaving a palpable void in Indian Cinema that reverberates to this day.
Her name resonates across diverse cinematic spectrums, transcending boundaries between parallel cinema and the popular mainstream.
Her performances stand as some of the most exceptional in the history
of Indian Cinema.

From her compelling roles in Shyam Benegal’s ‘Nishant’ (1975), a ground-breaking film and ‘Manthan’ (1976), based on V. Kurien’s monumental work in setting dairy cooperatives, to her immersive portrayal of Hansa Wadkar’s life in ‘Bhumika’ (1977), a role that earned her a distinguished National Award – each character she brought to life showcased her unparalleled talent.

And that’s not all, her performance in the 1982 much acclaimed film ‘Arth’
is one of the finest on-screen performances I have ever seen.
Apart from these films she also featured in some of the most successful commercial films of the popular mainstream, like ‘Shakti’ (1982) and
‘Namak Halaal’ (1983), pairing her with Amitabh Bachchan in the early 80s. In the late 80s, she paired with Kaka (Rajesh Khanna), in non-stereotypical middle-of-road social dramas like ‘Aakhir Kyon’ (1985) which has a strong women-centric plot, and ‘Amrit’ in 1986 talking about the condition of the older generation, in ‘Amrit’, Patil played a way older woman for her age showcasing her exceptional versatility.

Talking about so many films she featured in, her range of portraying different characters was extraordinary, the ’87 Ketan Mehta film
‘Mirch Masala’ was another landmark in proving that. Actors like
Smita Patil are rare, with a clear intention, a confident voice, and extraordinary acting skills, in a short span of mere ten years, she made
a lasting impact on the cinematic scene of the Indian Film Industry.

In case you overlooked our earlier post, here’s the link
Also read ‘Umbartha/Subah’ (1982)

#SmitaPatil #IndianCinema

DEV ANAND @ 100

On the occasion of Dev Anand’s 100th Birth Anniversary, we celebrate the life and legacy of a Bollywood legend who left an indelible mark on the silver screen. With his charismatic entry into Indian cinema in the mid-1940s, Dev Anand embarked on a journey that would define an era.

The Big Break

Dev Anand’s meteoric rise to fame was cemented with his breakout role in “Ziddi.” This role catapulted him to stardom, making him one of the most beloved mainstream actors of the 1950s. What set him apart was his unique style of acting, characterized by charming mannerisms that resonated deeply with audiences. His distinctive dialogue delivery, combined with a penchant for fashion, made him a true style icon, effortlessly donning a myriad of captivating attires.

The Romantic HERO

However, it was Dev Anand’s on-screen romantic image that truly endeared him to the masses. He portrayed love with an authenticity that made hearts flutter. His chemistry with leading ladies was electric, leaving an indomitable mark on the world of Indian cinema.

The Soulful music of his films

Music was a perpetual attraction in his films, and his collaboration with the Burmans, especially S.D. Burman, resulted in timeless melodies. The golden voice of Kishore Kumar became synonymous with Dev Anand, making him an eternal icon whose tunes still serenade generations.

A Visionary

Dev Anand wasn’t just a remarkable actor, he was a visionary ahead of his time. He conceptualized and brought to life classics like “Guide” (1965) and ventured into unique projects such as “Tere Mere Sapne.” He tackled groundbreaking themes in “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” and even ventured into directing, leaving a profound impact on Indian cinema.

A True Icon of India Cinema

Dev Anand’s centenary is not just a celebration of a life well-lived but a tribute to an icon who transcends generations. His contributions to Indian cinema are etched in gold, a testament to a legendary actor and a visionary who continues to inspire and captivate the hearts of cinema enthusiasts.

Also, on this occasion, read about Dev Sahab’s finest, “Guide” (1965),
from the Classics section, here’s the link

#DevAnand #Evergreen

Dev Sahab’s Unwavering Determination & The Divine Adaptation

Transforming a Literary Gem for the Masses Derived from the universally revered 1958 novel by R.K. Narayan, “Guide” embarked on a journey of artistic rebirth. While the English version by Pearl S. Buck and Tad Danielewski met with disappointment, Dev Sahab decided to revamp the project and invested heart and soul into the Hindi adaptation. His endeavor bore fruit, for he and his brother, Vijay Anand presented the narrative through the lens of the common man. With painstaking precision, they breathed life into the characters, rendering them relatable and endearing to both the critics and the masses.

DEV ANAND’s indomitable will to bring ‘Guide’ to life and make it resonate with the masses is a testament to his unwavering commitment to delivering quality within the popular mainstream. His desire to offer excellence in storytelling shines through his relentless pursuit of success with this iconic film.

Hindi Version, Adaptation, and Direction

Vijay Anand’s Cinematic Brilliance Adapted and helmed by the genius Vijay Anand, “Guide” emerged as a testament to his profound understanding of R.K. Narayan’s novel.

Vijay Anand expertly captured the nuances and expressions of Raju, skillfully infusing them into the life of an ordinary man, all while preserving Dev Anand’s impeccable style. His keen comprehension of the characters breathed an exceptional level of authenticity into the film, rendering it truly commendable.

The Philosophical Powerhouse

Guide – A Journey of Redemption and Reinvention Above all, “Guide” fearlessly escorts its audience down the path of soul-searching and the transformation of human desires. It delves into the core of human nature, exposing the unending thirst for warmth and love, often overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of material wealth in the world. As “Guide“ unravels, it leaves us with a resounding take-home message: The most profound wealth one can attain is not in riches but in the pursuit of truth, compassion, and the relentless quest for the human spirit’s warmth and love.

The Divine Music

‘Guide’ – A Symphony of Emotions and Transformation
The profound philosophical undertones of “Guide” find their fiery expression in the enchanting melodies composed by the legendary S.D. Burman. Coupled with the weighty verses crafted by Shailendra and brought to life by diverse voices, the music in this film is nothing short of a symphonic masterpiece. Each song is like a sonnet on celluloid, meticulously choreographed, and perfectly timed to convey the depths of human emotion.

Whether it’s the soulful “Yahan Kaun Hai Tera Musafir” setting the stage for the story’s flashback, the heartwarming “Tere Mere Sapne” solidifying the love between Raju and Rosie, or “Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai,” hinting at Rosie’s concealed desire to break free and showcase her talents to the world, every musical note resonates with meaning. “Gaata Rahe Mera Dil” captures the essence of Rosie’s professional success, while the melancholic brilliance of “Din Dhal Jaaye” describes the shifting dynamics between Raju and Rosie. And then there’s the magnum opus, “Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya,” an event rather than just a song, with its symbolic presentation linked to “Mo Se Chal” and the profound realization etched on Raju’s face. The music in ‘Guide’ is a relentless force that propels the narrative forward and elevates it to cinematic greatness.

The Final Act: A Philosophical Odyssey

In the closing chapters of “Guide,” the film plunges deep into the essence of life. When Raju is inadvertently mistaken for a saint and urged to observe a twelve-day fast to bring rain to the drought-stricken village, he embarks on a transformative journey. Initially hesitant, he ultimately embraces this spiritual path and redefines his desires and priorities. His sole aim becomes the welfare of the village and its people.

The culmination of the film, with Raju’s introspective dialogue, particularly when Rosie joins him and he utters the profound words, “Rosie aa gayi aur maa bhi-paani na barsa toh kya hoga…” represents one of the most extraordinary moments in mainstream Indian Cinema. This emotionally charged scene showcases Raju’s inner struggle and serves as the crowning jewel of a movie that artfully explores the depths of human philosophy.

Challenging Stereotypes: ‘Guide’ A Pioneer of Change

“Guide” was more than just philosophical, it boldly shattered stereotypes of its time. Rosie’s courageous departure from her unsupportive husband and her journey towards becoming a successful dancer defied societal expectations. The film also championed feminist ideals by showcasing Raju as Rosie’s manager, a rarity in mainstream cinema during that era.

“Guide” broke new ground, addressing themes that few dared to explore in mainstream movies. Dev Anand’s visionary storytelling went beyond the ordinary, setting a precedent for discussing themes that were unconventional for their time, all while delivering a captivating and impactful narrative.

Also, read the review of the original novel, ‘The Guide’ (1958) by R.K. Narayan, here’s the link

Satyen Bose’s “Jagriti (1954)” stands as a cinematic masterpiece that transcends time. It’s a story of youthful idealism, dedicated teaching, and the transformative power of education. On this Teacher’s Day, this film’s vision and advanced storytelling are more relevant than ever.

At the heart of the film is the outstanding performance by
Abhi Bhattacharya, who portrays Shekhar, a teacher whose influence goes beyond the classroom. Jagriti excels in its poignant moments, memorable soundtrack, and its portrayal of a teacher-student relationship that extends into real life. Shekhar’s approach to the children in the film serves as an example, emphasizing the true essence of education nurturing curiosity, compassion, and camaraderie.

As we celebrate Teacher’s Day, let’s revisit this timeless classic and honor the enduring lessons- the importance of dedicated educators, the unity of spirited youth, and the everlasting beauty of cinema. Jagriti is not just a film, it’s a legacy that continues, will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences across generations.

P.S. “Jagriti (1954)” was my maternal grandfather’s (was a professor in real life) favorite film too. Additionally, the movie features some of the most famous songs from Indian cinema including “Aao Bachcho Tumhein Dikhayen Jhanki Hindustan Ki.”

In case you overlooked our earlier post, here’s the link https://perfectmisenscene.com/?p=966

The Black & White Classic Based upon Ashutosh Mukherjee’s acclaimed short story, “Nurse Mitra”, Khamoshi stands apart in all aspects of filmmaking and storytelling. The way the narrative picks up the pace was something unique in the 70’s mainstream. With Asit Sen’s vision, an acclaimed story, Hemantda’s music, and Gulzar Sahab’s lyrics, the movie became a Black & White masterpiece featuring some of the finest, most poignant performances of the 70s decade. Along with Guide (1965) and Reshma Aur Shera (1971), Waheeda Rehman delivered her finest in Khamoshi, especially the last part.

A Masterpiece Khamoshi is unusually extraordinary in various aspects, the story, the narrative, the deliberate choice of Black & White cinematography, the cast, and the music. Before “Khamoshi” Asit Sen had already made a film based on the same story, “Deep Jwele Jaai (1959)” with Suchitra Sen in the lead in fact, Khamoshi is the remake of his Bengali language film. In Khamoshi, I think Waheeda Rehman was the most appropriate choice for the nurse’s role. Rajesh Khanna delivered a fabulous performance as a rejected lover, his intense bearded look suited the character. If I were to list the top five performances by Rajesh Khanna from the 70s, it would have Khamoshi as one of them. Dharmendra’s special appearance makes the flashback more impactful.

The Story Khamoshi’s story is one of the most poignant and ground-breaking stories featured in the 70’s mainstream, revolving around an extraordinary nurse (played by Waheeda Rehman) who puts her heart and soul into serving the two patients and helps them recover from their mental illness (first Dev, played by Dharmendra then Arun, played by Rajesh Khanna; patient no. 24). In both the cases, what needed more was love, warmth, and care, which Radha provides like no one in the world but what about Radha’s feelings for Arun (earlier Dev), after all, she is a human being too. And after her job is done, she is asked to cut all ties with the patient, and this very question forms the basis of the story.

The Divine Music Irresistible music and songs, a divine collaboration, Hemantda’s music with Gulzar Sahab’s lyrics. I can literally listen to every song from Khamoshi on loop for infinity, be it, Tum Pukar lo (by Hemantda), Wo Shaam Kuch Ajeeb thi (by Kishoreda), Humne Dekhi Hai Un Aakhon Ki (by Lata ji) and all three are my favorites.

P.S. Also, enjoy “Tum Pukar Lo” and “Woh Shaam Kuch Ajeeb Thi” from this classic in my voice, link below
“Tum Pukar Lo”- https://youtu.be/lkWHLbz08GI
“Woh Shaam Kuch Ajeeb Thi (short)”- https://youtu.be/P8sPk63vMc0

One of my favorite Marvel Superhero films, Ang Lee’s 2003 Sci-fi classic
“Hulk” I remember when I saw this film for the first time on my television back in 2013 almost ten years ago and I must admit it was a real Sci-fi treat for me. We see a lot of Sci-fi movies these days which are scientific in a way but on the other hand, if we talk about the technicalities or logical background, they fail to deliver or tend to cover it up with mindless drama. But Hulk 2003 is quite different from the lot, it is one of the most detailed technical films about a comic character, it is like Hulk-Origins. Belonging to a Biotechnology background I want to acknowledge that I heard the term “Biotechnology” for the first time in this film only.

A substantial part of the film is all about the scientific technicalities and I think they have shown the most scientifically accurate approach to it. Be it the part when Bruce’s father is shown researching (in the flashback) or the other part of the film when Betty and Bruce are doing their research work in the lab. The kind of subject the film deals with could have been a very distracted film but on the contrary, the screenplay stays focused and true to its surroundings without any unnecessary clutter. And I also want to acknowledge that somewhere this film also became a reason why I chose Biotechnology for my Bachelor’s…, the scientist part was so fascinating that I had to.

The Visual Effects I don’t know much about VFX or visual effects as a technology but whatever I know, I think I liked the visual effects in Hulk 2003. From the very first transformation of Bruce into Hulk to the last part of the film (father-son fight scene), it was pretty decent for an early 2000s film. The last part of the film, the fight between The Absorbing Man and Hulk is my favorite part of the film. There is a specific scene in the fight, where the Absorbing Man is taking Hulk with him through the clouds and the thunderstorm, this particular scene with the background music for me became one of the finest scenes in a Sci-fi movie in terms of visual effects, it almost felt like an electronic comic strip.

P.S. Hulk (2003) was nominated for Saturn Award in four categories,
Best Sci-fi Film, Best Special Effects, Best Music, and Best Actress for Connelly.

“Safar” comes from an era of cinema where formulaic films were not in the mainstream scene, it was the era of meaningful and storyful dramas. The Amar Jodi of Rajesh-Sharmila created wonders in some of the greatest mainstream films of the Indian cinema in the 70s and Safar is one of them. Safar is an example of simple yet impactful cinema. The plainness of the characters and the depth in their eyes had the power to influence a countrywide audience to fall in love with this artistic masterpiece and make it a commercial success as well.

Avinash, Neela and Zindagi ka Safar…
As much as Avinash wanted Neela to be happy, considering his life-threatening illness, he ends up making Neela’s life more painful and complicated. He pushes Neela to marry Shekhar which she finally agrees to, after an intense emotional conversation but it results in Neela becoming even more difficult and naturally not very inclined towards Shekhar. And when she finally does, Shekhar ends his life after knowing that Neela loves Avinash, which leaves Neela nowhere just nowhere.
So, Safar is a story of simple characters trying to tune in with life. But sometimes things are so complicated that you don’t know, what to do, how to react, and where to lead. The line fits so perfectly, “Zindagi ka Safar hai ye kaisa Safar, koi samjha nahin, koi jaana nahin, hai ye kaisi dagar, chalte hain sab magar, koi samjha nahi, koi jaana nahin…”

The Original True Blue Superstar
One thing that always fascinates me about Rajesh Khanna’s stardom is the quality of the films and his choices in the prime of his career. It was some of the best mainstream masterpieces of the 70s which catapulted him to Superstardom. Apart from a few purely commercial projects (and that too, the good ones), films like Aradhana (1969), Safar (1970), Anand (1971), Amar Prem (1972), and Bawarchi (1972)…the list goes on, became the reason he was getting all crazy popularity in the 70s. He defined stardom in his own way, how it should be, and the quality of content a star should be known for. The balance between art and commerce was prominently visible in his choice of projects, especially before the 80s started.

P.S. I can listen to every song of Safar on a loop, irresistible music.

Also, enjoy “Jeevan Se Bhari” and “Zindagi Ka Safar” from this classic in my voice, link below
“Jeevan Se Bhari”- https://youtu.be/cM6HPz_s1wg
“Zindagi Ka Safar (short)”- https://youtu.be/3VKiYmwXhcA