Monday, December 21, 2009


Date: 02/03/2008

Jodha Akbar

Shahenshah –E- Hindustan, Jalalluddin Mohammad Akbar has already made his majestic arrival in theatres weeks ago but I had an ecstatic rendezvous with him today itself.
‘Jodha-Akbar’- A mesmerizing magnum opus in the real sense of the term. Each aspect of the movie is flawless. To take a look at some:
Hrithik is in one of the most stunning roles of his career. With so devotion and efficacy, he plays Akbar that Prithvi Raj Kapoor must be smiling from the heavens above to Hrithik’s performance.
Be it his benevolence to his Raiyyat, his diplomatic administration or his chivalry with Aish - Hrithik, again, proves his mettle in each scene.
If we acclaim him so much, in Shelley’s term, can Mallika-E- Hindustan be far behind? Aish perfectly plays a bold and beautiful Rajput princess. Her matchless beauty and sharpness justifies her casting.
My major temptation, however, was the enchanting music of A. R. Rahman - a genius. He sets a perfect mood for every occasion. A highly soulful Suffi song –Khwaja Mere Khwaja, takes us into trance as it takes Akbar.
‘Jashn-E-Bahaara’ and ‘In Lamho Ke Daaman Main’ are the epitome of ‘Shringar Rasa’. Not to neglect ‘Azeem-O-Shan Shahenshah’ with a bombastic woofer sound sings the glory of India’s legendary emperor. Hats off to Javed Akhtar’s Urdu studded Hindi poetry.
What about the technicalities? Well, the cinematography, especially in war scenes and songs, is phenomenal. The first encounter of the two armies reminded me of the similar confrontation in ‘Troy’. Unfortunately the scene is an exact adaptation from ‘Troy’ and so is the last duel of Akbar.
The settings of titanic castles, jewel-studded costumes, rapidly shifting camera angles etc cast a spell over the audience.
On top of that, the ‘Siyaasati Daav-Pech’, Akbar’s journey of life, his dilemma in tackling the black sheep Badi Ammi and bete noire traitor bother-in law etc make ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ a complete entertainer.
Dialogues, in balanced Urdu, are also touchy. E.g.,
“Khushiyon Ka Batwaraa Shankh Aur Azaan Ki Aawaaz Se Nahi Hota.”
“Hamesha Hamari Shamsher Ke Saaye Main Hamaare Apne Hi Kyon Aate Hain?”
The moment the name Ronnie Screwala hit the screen, I gave a nudge to my buddy ensuring the quality of the movie. Ronnie is the unsung artist of ‘Rang De Basanti’ and ‘Metro’, and guess I was right!
The dust of controversy raised by some importance seeking cynics for the authenticity of its history has proven to be a shot in the arm for the movie.
Ultimately, a creator of ‘Swades’ and ‘Lagaan’ – Aashutosh Gowarikar deserves several pats on his back for gifting an extravaganza to the Indian celluloid.
To enjoy the saga of ‘Saahib- E- Aalam’ in the surround sound system of multiplex is a stupefying experience for me.
Dear serious movie freaks, you will kick up your hills watching ‘Jodhaa Akbar’. It’s a must watch for you.
- Jay Mehta



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