‘Films like Rang De Basanti happen once in a while’ | The Express Tribune
Basanti gives color, a 2006 film directed by Rakesh Om Prakash Mehra, received critical acclaim and left an indelible mark on the Indian cinema landscape. This thought-provoking film entertained audiences and reflected deeply on patriotism, youth activism, and the power of collective action.
Basanti gives color It stands out as a unique piece of art due to its innovative storytelling, blending of genres and social and political relevance. In a recent interview shared by Instant BollywoodAtul Kulkarni, who played Laxman Pandey and Ramprasad Bismal, spoke about the unique nature of the film.
When asked about working on a similar project with Mehra or Aamir Khan, Kulkarni said, “They happen once in a while. Even if the same team comes together again, they can try, but maybe. That we couldn’t accomplish it. The same thing. So we’ve done it, and it remains to be seen, and once in a while, we all enjoy watching it together.”
In an earlier interview with Bollywood uproar, Kulkarni further highlighted the film’s longevity. “I’m not at all surprised that it still lives on in the minds and hearts of audiences. It’s a cult film, one of the classics!” They said. When asked about the content of the film, he said, “Whenever I see the youth going in the wrong direction, I always say that the remedy is to give them ‘truthful history.’ ‘ should be taught. And once they know what the truth is then any misguided youth will surely come back to their senses.”
Elaborating on Mehra’s methodology, Kulkarni revealed, “Simplifying something complex is his forte. It happened during the narration as well. He has a vision and an idea and yet, the actors have to do their thing. He gives a free hand to interpret it according to the understanding. He will stop them only if they are departing from his concept. Otherwise, he allows the actors to be free, within a certain limit. “
The story of the film revolves around a group of university students who quickly become drawn to their characters’ rebellious spirit while performing in a documentary about India’s freedom fighters. As the story unfolds, the protagonists transition from carefree youth to passionate activists, struggling against corruption and political apathy. The film effectively connects past and present, blurring the lines between fiction and reality and creating a powerful narrative that resonates with the audience.
One of the amazing aspects of Basanti gives color It is a seamless blend of multiple genres. It combines elements of drama, romance, comedy, and even thriller with ease, enthralling the audience with its engaging storytelling. The film’s ability to shift tone and evoke a range of emotions adds depth to its characters and ensures a memorable viewing experience.
Basanti gives color It also deals with various social and political issues prevalent in contemporary India. It strongly criticizes the corruption, bureaucracy and apathy of the older generation, which is affecting the development of the country. The film highlights themes of youth activism, highlighting the power of dissent and the need for social change. It encourages viewers to question their own roles and responsibilities as citizens and encourages them to actively engage with social issues.
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