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45 years of star-studded masala entertainer ‘Takkar’

Starcast: Ashok Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, Sanjeev Kumar, Jeetendra, Zeenat Aman, Vinod Mehra, Jaya Prada, Bindiya Goswami, Asrani, and Ranjit ...


Starcast: Ashok Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, Sanjeev Kumar, Jeetendra, Zeenat Aman, Vinod Mehra, Jaya Prada, Bindiya Goswami, Asrani, and Ranjit

Direction: K. Bapaiah

Music: R.D. Burman

“Takkar” (meaning 'Collision' or 'Clash') is a quintessential Bollywood masala entertainer, directed by K. Bapaiah. Featuring a star-studded ensemble cast including Sanjeev Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Jeetendra, Zeenat Aman, Vinod Mehra, Bindiya Goswami, and Ranjit, the film, which was released on April 18, 1980, aimed to capture the audience's imagination with its blend of action, drama, romance, and music. Importantly, “Takkar” was not an original story; it was a Hindi remake of the highly successful 1973 Telugu blockbuster “Devudu Chesina Manushulu”, which starred stalwarts like N.T. Rama Rao and Krishna. Coming from an era dominated by multi-starrers and formulaic entertainers, “Takkar” attempted to replicate the success of its source material for the Hindi audience and succeeded.

Storyline

The plot of “Takkar” follows a familiar yet engaging, masala template. It revolves around the lives of three siblings who are tragically separated. As fate would have it, they grow up in drastically different circumstances. One (played by Jeetendra, is the energetic, flirtatious antihero) becomes a spoilt brat, while the other, played by Sanjeev Kumar who is having the films most interesting character arc) gets entangled in the world of smuggling and crime, frequently under the command of a powerful don (Ranjit) who are mainly into smuggling historical idols. The sister's role is played by Bindiya Goswami, also a spoilt, snooty girl with almost no moral values. 

Their paths inevitably cross, and they engage in the titular “takkar” – without realizing their past connection. Interwoven into this central conflict are romantic subplots, typically involving the heroes and the glamorous heroines (Zeenat Aman, Jaya Prada, and Bindiya Goswami). Family drama, mistaken identities, loyalties tested, and eventual revelations form the crux of the narrative. The story relies heavily on coincidences and dramatic twists characteristic of the genre, aiming for emotional resonance alongside thrilling action sequences, ultimately leading towards a climactic showdown and reunion featuring a huge Ganesha idol.

Direction and Other Technical Departments

K. Bapaiah, known for directing several Hindi remakes of South Indian hits (often starring Jeetendra), helmed “Takkar”. His direction is competent and sticks closely to the established masala formula. He successfully juggles the multiple stars and subplots, ensuring the film maintains a brisk pace for the most part. However, the direction doesn't break any new ground and follows the conventions of the era.

The screenplay, adapted from the Telugu original, provides a solid framework for action, emotion, and romance, though it suffers from predictability common in formula films. The dialogues are functional, sometimes hitting the dramatic highs required for such entertainers.

Technically, the film is standard for its time. The cinematography adequately captures the action sequences and song-and-dance routines. Editing keeps the complex narrative moving, although, by modern standards, some transitions or sequences might feel abrupt or prolonged. The action choreography features the typical fistfights and chase scenes prevalent in 80s Bollywood. Overall, the technical aspects serve the story adequately without being particularly innovative.

Music

The music is one of the definite highlights of the film. Composed by the legendary R.D. Burman, the soundtrack features a mix of catchy and melodious numbers that gained considerable popularity. Songs like "Murti Ganesh Ki" (a festive track), the peppy "Ritu Ru Ritu Ru", the atmospheric "Yeh Tanhaai" , the bouncy "Jab Jab Dekhoon Main” and the devotional "Makhanchor Nandkishore" showcased Burman's versatility. Sung by leading playback singers of the era like Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, and Mahendra Kapoor, the songs were well-integrated into the narrative, enhancing the romantic and dramatic moments. R.D. Burman's score significantly elevates the film's entertainment value.

Performances

“Takkar” benefits immensely from its powerful ensemble cast:

Sanjeev Kumar, a versatile actor, delivers a nuanced performance, likely in a complex role that anchors the emotional weight of the film, as a conflicted figure or an eldest heir caught in the crossfire. His screen presence is undeniable.

Jeetendra, the quintessential energetic hero of the era, fits his role perfectly, handling the action sequences and dance numbers with his characteristic zeal.

Zeenat Aman, known for her glamorous and modern persona, adds star power and style as the lead heroine, performing capably in her role.

Vinod Mehra, often seen in supporting or parallel lead roles, provides a knockout, dependable performance especially in the pre climax. However, his show off with the chequebook often caused irritation. 

Bindiya Goswami complements the cast very well as the second female lead. Her unusually glamorous avatar is surprisingly good.

Ranjit, as the suave villain, brings his signature style and menace to the proceedings, making the antagonist memorable. His oft repeated dialogue zyada sawaal jawaab nahin shows his cockiness and arrogance really well. 

The supporting cast, notably Ashok Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, and Asrani, also contribute effectively to the overall narrative. The chemistry between the lead pairs and the dramatic confrontations between the key characters are handled well by the experienced actors.

“Takkar” stands as a representative example of the multi-starrer masala films that dominated Bollywood during its time. It works primarily due to its stellar cast, R.D. Burman's engaging music, and competent direction that adheres strictly to the entertainer formula. It may not be groundbreaking cinema, and its plot might seem predictable today, but it delivers on its promise of action, drama, romance, and music. For fans of the actors involved, R.D. Burman's compositions, or those looking for a nostalgic trip back to the 80s Bollywood masala era, “Takkar” remains a watchable and fairly entertaining film.

By Ayushmaan Mitra

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