Bajirao Mastani
EROS INTERNATIONAL (2 discs), Rs 399
Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Mahesh Manjrekar
Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for extravagant sets on his films, and this film is no exception. Reportedly one of the most expensive films ever made in Hindi cinema, Bhansali fills the movie with huge castles, a twinkling palace of mirrors, candlelit rooms, lush fabrics and elaborate costumes very minutely selected for each character. The cinematography is outstanding, with the special effects-laden battlefield scenes more pompous than ever, something you’d compare to Hollywood cinema.
Ever since the stupendous success of the film that went on to win the National Award for Best Director this year, Bhansali is on cloud nine and why wouldn’t he be. Bajirao Mastani was in the making for over 10 years, but was stuck due to other commitments. But everything worked out well, and with time he also found the right lead pair to do justice to this film. Deepika and Ranveer give splendid performances, often showcasing the emotional tag they have for one another. Priyanka Chopra as Ranveer’s spurned wife does justice to her role candidly and with equal talent.
The film is set in 18th century India during the Maratha regime. Bajirao (Ranveer Singh) is sent to liberate the besieged Bundelkhand region, leaving wife Kashibai (Priyanka Chopra) at home. Bajirao falls into stride with a local warrior princess Mastani (Deepika Padukone). After Mastani saves his life, Bajirao gives her his dagger, which in her kingdom, means they’re married. She follows him home, only to be rejected by his mother and wife. Mastani does not give up. For her it’s about love and not betrayal. Everyone knows this marriage of a Hindu man and a Muslim woman cannot take place. For Mastani, the fierce woman warrior, this battle isn’t over: soon, she’s riding into court, demanding further satisfaction from the man she loves.
The movie’s soundtrack impresses and enchants. Keeping with the timeline of the film, you have classical, semi-classical and folksy tunes, all with the able guidance of Bhansali who also fuses Marathi in the dialogue of the film and in song. Shreya Ghoshal’s beautiful voice fills the room on the title song. Ghoshal also takes on Mohe Rang Do Laal that features Kathak bols sung by Pandit Birju Maharaji. Aayat sees the very talented Arijit Singh mixing a folksy melody on love with a touch of qawwali. The fast-paced Malhari by Vishal Dadlani is another topper. Pinga is simply fantastic too. Lastly, Padukone and her backup dancers make a good sight with the great use of the mandolin on the song Deewani Mastani.
A visual and musical treat for the senses that you should not miss even though the film clocks over two and half hours.
Verus Ferreira is a music journalist for over three decades. He is the author of The Great Music Quiz Book and The Great Rock Music Quiz Book and the founder of Musicunplugged.in