When a film repeatedly flashes a disclaimer, both at the
start and end of the movie, you better take it seriously. Ace director, Sanjay Leela
Bhansali’s long awaited magnum opus, Bajirao Mastani, pleads you to do just
that.
With the recent controversy surrounding the movie prior to
its release, this was unavoidable. The disclaimer states that the film is based
on a Marathi book ‘Raau’ and asks for cinematic leverage in order to suit
cinematic sensibilities and make the saga entertaining for the masses. Isn’t
the message loud and clear? Why the hue and cry?
I'm no historian who would dismiss this film based on
whether it does validated portrayal of historical events or not. You need not
be an expert in history to appreciate a film like this. I wish to enjoy the
movie with the same intentions with which it was made: that is to entertain. To
put a tag to the film, be it fiction, semi fiction (whatever), or nonfiction is
up to the makers. Allow me to enjoy with a mouthful of popcorn and piping hot chocolate.
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| A still from the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet |
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| A still from the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet |
Tanvi Azmi, in the role of Bajirao’s mother, makes the
strong personality of her character evident in this whirlwind romance. I feel
grateful to Bhansali for making Shreya Ghoshal croon the songs, Pinga and
Deewani Mastani. She is as delightful to the ears as Deepika is to the eyes when
she dances to them.
The one person, without whom this movie would have fallen
flat on its face, is the protagonist of the film all the way! Ranveer as Bajirao
is possibly the best actor on earth (yes, I mean it) to make this character alive
on the silver screen. There is no one thing you would want him to do
differently. Every dialogue, every look, the Marathi accent, his energy,
everything; he is sure to drill himself into your minds and hearts. The sincerity with which he successfully gives
an effortless performance is sure to make him a lambi race ka ghoda. As Imtiaz Ali has given Ranbir his career best
performances (read Rockstar and Tamashaa), similarly, Bhansali has effortlessly
extracted the best from Ranveer in ram Leela and Bajirao Mastani. Awards or no
awards, Ranveer, a big salute mahhnn! I wish to act like you someday!
| A still from the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet |
Who cares to believe whether the real Bajirao ever danced or not when you have Ranveer grooving like mad to a madder song. Loved him in this one and the song too.
