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50 years of ‘Aandhi’ , a masterclass in acting

Starcast: Suchitra Sen, Sanjeev Kumar, Om Shivpuri, Rehman, Manmohan and A K Hangal Direction: Gulzar Music: R.D. Burman “Aandhi”, dir...

Starcast: Suchitra Sen, Sanjeev Kumar, Om Shivpuri, Rehman, Manmohan and A K Hangal

Direction: Gulzar

Music: R.D. Burman

“Aandhi”, directed by Gulzar, is a landmark Bollywood romantic drama that deftly intertwines personal relationships with political undertones. Starring Suchitra Sen and Sanjeev Kumar, the film is celebrated for its nuanced storytelling, poetic sensibilities, and unforgettable music. However, ‘Aandhi’ stirred significant controversy upon release in = 1975 due to its perceived parallels with the life of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, leading to a temporary ban during the Emergency in India. Despite this, the film remains a cinematic gem, revered for its emotional depth and artistic finesse.

Storyline  

"Aandhi’" tells the story of Aarti Devi (Suchitra Sen), a successful politician, who arrives at a hill station for an election campaign. There, she unexpectedly reunites with her estranged husband, JK (Sanjeev Kumar), a hotel manager. Through a series of flashbacks, the film reveals their past: a passionate love story that crumbled under the weight of Aarti’s political ambitions and familial pressures. The narrative alternates between their tender reunion and reflections on their separation, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the clash between personal desires and public duty. The screenplay, written by Gulzar, is subtle yet powerful, using rain and wind (symbolizing the titular “aandhi” or storm) as metaphors for the turmoil in their lives. The controversial political subtext—interpreted as a commentary on Indira Gandhi’s life—added layers of intrigue, though Gulzar maintained the story was fictional.

Direction and Other Technical Departments

Gulzar’s direction is the soul of “Aandhi”, blending poetic lyricism with realistic storytelling. His ability to capture raw emotions while maintaining narrative restraint is remarkable. The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the characters’ inner conflicts. Cinematographer K. Vaikunth’s work is striking, with the misty hill station and rainy sequences enhancing the film’s melancholic tone. The use of natural elements like rain and fog as visual motifs is particularly evocative. Editing by Waman Bhonsle and Gurudutt Shirali is seamless, with smooth transitions between past and present that enrich the storytelling. The art direction and costume design authentically reflect the characters’ contrasting worlds—Aarti’s polished political persona and JK’s understated simplicity. The film’s technical finesse elevates its emotional and thematic impact.

Music  

The soundtrack by R.D. Burman with lyrics by Gulzar, is one of the film’s crowning glories. Songs like “Tum Aa Gaye Ho Noor Aa Gaya Hai,” “Tere Bina Zindagi Se Koi,” and “Is Mod Se Jaate Hain” are timeless classics, blending soulful melodies with profound lyrics. Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar’s playback singing infuses the tracks with raw emotion, perfectly mirroring the characters’ longing and heartbreak. The fourth track, “Salaam Kijiye”, on the other hand, is a sarcastic song on the allegedly false promises given by political leaders. The music is seamlessly woven into the narrative, amplifying the film’s emotional resonance. Each song serves as a poetic extension of the story, making the soundtrack an integral part of the film’s enduring appeal.

Performances

Suchitra Sen delivers a career-defining performance as Aarti Devi, portraying a woman torn between love and ambition with remarkable grace and intensity. Her expressive eyes and restrained demeanour convey a depth of emotion that lingers long after the film ends. Sanjeev Kumar is equally compelling as JK, bringing warmth, vulnerability, and quiet strength to the role. Their chemistry is electric, making their shared moments both tender and heartbreaking. Supporting actors like Om Shivpuri and Rehman add gravitas to the political backdrop, though the film belongs unequivocally to Sen and Kumar. Their performances elevate “Aandhi” into a masterclass in acting.

“Aandhi” is a cinematic triumph that beautifully captures the complexities of love, sacrifice, and ambition. Gulzar’s sensitive direction, coupled with stellar performances by Suchitra Sen and Sanjeev Kumar, creates a deeply moving narrative that transcends its controversial political undertones. The film’s evocative music, stunning visuals, and poetic storytelling make it a timeless classic in Indian cinema. Despite the political storm it weathered upon release, “Aandhi” endures as a testament to the power of storytelling that speaks to both the heart and the mind. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates cinema that dares to explore the human condition with honesty and artistry.

-       - By Ayushmaan Mitra

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