Aarakshan – Movie Review

Prakash Jha’s movies always give one a reflection of the present society. It shakes our thinking and compel us to think is this really happens in our society. His journey from ‘Damul’ to ‘Aarakshan’ is path breaking and thought provoking. His latest offering ‘Aarakshan’ based on caste-based reservation is an awakening subject which makes us aware how sensitive the issue is and how the society has been divided into general and backward classes. The film not only deals with the caste based reservation but also shows us the picture as how educational institutions have become a big hub of money making. Though we claim to be an equal society, students were divided into two on the basis of caste when it comes to get admitted into college or getting a job. ‘Aarakshan’ is a reflection of the present society. It tells the story of Dr. Prabhakar Anand (Amitabh Bachchan), an ideal principal of an esteemed college and a man of strict principles. It is a story of Deepak Kumar (Saif Ali Khan), a brilliant student who is ready to do anything for his sir. Then there is Poorbi (Deepika Padukone), the daughter of Dr. Prabhakar Anand who falls in love with Deepak. Deepak and Poorvi have a close buddy in college name Sushant [Prateik]. Things were all right until Dr. Prabhakar Anand gave approval on reservations for backward classes. His approval was opposed by the standing committee of his private institution which compels him to voluntarily resign from his post. Mithilesh Singh (Manoj Bajpayee) who never sees eye to eye with Anand in any matter is appointed as the new college principal. He parallely runs coaching classes outside the campus. Then follows the tiff between the right and the wrong, good and the evil. The film has many strong conversations which is real and catchy. There are many instances in the movie that deserves applaud. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's music is not at all ear-soothing. None of the songs can impress the audience. Sachin Kumar Krishnan's cinematography is top-notch. Santosh Mandal's editing is fine. Speaking about performances, Amitabh Bachchan delivers an outstanding performance, totally fits to the role. His expression was real and touchy. Saif Ali Khan portrayed his part really well. At first glance, one had the feeling that his looks doesn’t fit to the character but when later he proved to be effective. Deepika Padukone is simple, matches her step with established actors. Manoj Bajpai plays the negative character with perfection. Prateik needs time to polish his acting. Darshan Jariwala, Yashpal Sharma is effective. ‘Aarakshan’ is a well made film by Prakash Jha. Recommended to go and watch the social awakening subject.