Review : Phule : Inspiring and Educative!
Today, we live in a free and independent India, where each citizen enjoys liberty and equality. In an age when the Right to Education ensures that education is made available to all, irrespective of gender or caste, this provision is bound to be taken for granted. However, the educational privileges that we relish today were won over by the numerous sacrifices of #MahatmaJyotiraoPhule and his wife, #SavitribaiPhule. While the names of these freedom fighters are lost and forgotten in the pages of our history, #AnanthNarayanMahadevans film ‘Phule’ is an excellent reminder of their contributions to education and social reform in India.
‘Phule’ is a biopic that narrates the inspiring story of Jyotirao Phule (#PratikGandhi) and Savitribai Phule (#Patralekha) as they ignite a revolution for education and equality in India. During the 19th century, when girls were denied education and Dalits were treated as untouchables, social reformer Jyotirao Phule strived to fulfil his vision – ‘An educated society of equality, with no discrimination on the basis of caste or gender.’ Rendering him complete support and assistance were his wife Savitribai Phule, their adopted son Yashwant Phule (#DarsheelSafary), Jyotirao’s friend Usman Sheikh (#JayeshMore), Usman’s sister Fatima Sheikh (#AkshayaGurav), Tatya Bhide (#VishalTiwari) and Vishnu Pant (#AsitRedij). The biographical drama navigates the troublesome battle fought by the Phule couple in bringing their vision to life. From girl child education to widow remarriage, the reforms brought about by them became the stepping stones to India’s independence.
Pratik Gandhi delivers a poised and graceful performance as he portrays Jyotirao’s journey from being Jyotiba to becoming a Mahatma. He embraces a composed and resilient demeanour, working silently as a calm force in the midst of opposition. Patralekha, on the other hand, is a force to be reckoned with in ‘Phule’. She brings a fierce energy to the screen, knowing when to shine and when to underplay. Although the lead actors struggle with their Marathi dialogues, they make the characters their own. The supporting cast contributes substantially to the biopic, depicting India’s lesser-known reformers on the silver screen.
The authentic costume styling and set locations take you back to the 1800s. Ananth Narayan Mahadevan’s direction is nearly flawless, depicting historical details to the ‘T’. The period drama’s soundtrack is both soothing and energising, complementing the lives of the Phule couple perfectly. ‘Phule’ is no less than a masterpiece, a history lesson that will remain etched in the hearts of its viewers.
***1/2
By Team CineBuster