Rating: ★★★★ Studio / Presenter: Aryaman Publicity Producer: Sachin Baliram Nagargoje, Hemant Bhailal Bhavsar Screenplay, Direction: Sachin Baliram Nagargoje Cinematographer: Santosh Suvarnakar Music: Sumeet Bellari & Rohit Nagbhide Cast: Kashyap Parulekar, Veena Jamkar, Shruti Marathe, Neena Kulkarni, Sharad Ponkshe, Ambarish Deshpande, Ashwini Ekbote Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Script plays a very important role in the success of Marathi films. And, when you come to know that the script of a Marathi film is inspired by Ravindranath Tagore’s story; obviously, there will be lot of curiosity about the film. Young film maker Sachin Baliram Nagargoje has dared to present this sensible period story, through his new Marathi film ‘Taptapadi’.

Set on the backdrop of pre independence days period, the film revolves around Meera (Veena Jamkar) who has been brought up by her paternal aunty and her husband (Ashwini Ekbote and Sharad Ponkshe) since her childhood, after the sudden demise of her mother. At her Aunty’s place little Meera becomes friendly with her cousin Madhav (Kashyap Parulekar) who is later sent for his higher studies to Pune. When Madhav returns after a long period, while doing his graduation in medicine; he develops intimate relationship with Meera and the relationship turns into their marriage.

Both live happily, till Meera has a miscarriage. Madhav and Meera shift to Pune, where Madhav is studying in medical college. Not understanding the growth of Glaucoma in Meera’s eyes, Madhav treats her for general irritation. In the process, her trouble aggravates, with poor vision. Finally, when Madhav’s medical college surgeon examines her and suggests immediate operation, it is too late. Meera turns blind. Her aunty, uncle, brother and father suggest Madhav to let her go along with them, so as to take good care of her. But, Madhav feeling the guilt of neglect, wants Meera with him. He takes good care of her.

One fine day, his paternal aunty Durvabai (Neena Kulkarni) arrives at his place, with a plan in her mind. She wants her own well educated niece Sunanda (Shruti Marathe) from Mumbai to marry Madhav. She even invites her to Madhav’s place. And, then begins the real drama. Though, Sunanda becomes friendly with Meera, the negative thoughts running in the mind of Meera makes her more uncomfortable and she displays her anger and frustration., After taking Madhav into confidence for second marriage, Durvabai leaves with her niece. But, destiny has something else to decide. The climax scene of the film, says it all.

Director Sachin Nagargoje has handled this sensitive love story very well. Having written the screenplay himself, he has been able to present the emotion filled scenes very well. Being a period film, he has cleverly avoided outdoor scenes. But, with the support of good cinematography by Santosh Suvarnakar, he has handled the intimate love scenes very well. Considering Ravindranath Tagore’s love for poems and keeping in mind his love for art; both music and art direction have been well executed in the film. The locations and use of bullock cart, horse carriage and the old styled car used by Madhav, clearly remind you about the old period. Singer Savani Shende, lyricist Vaibhav Joshi and music directors Sumeet Bellari & Rohit Nagbhide have done a good job.

However, the director hasn’t paid attention on miniature details of the make up of Meera, especially after she suffers burn injuries. The healing of wounds on her right hand and face, haven’t been followed in continuity properly. But, barring this small error, he has succeeded in presenting this film very well. Wonderful performances by all the artistes, makes the film more realistic. It is almost like listening to the story of Meera, who is also a narrator in this film.

No wonder, Veena Jamkar has put in her heart into the role of Meera. Even otherwise, she has always been a great performer; but, this role is something special for her. In the character of Sunanda, Shruti Marathe does look a perfect choice. She has played this bubbly cheerful Sunanda with complete understanding of the importance of her role. Kashyap Parulekar, has played his most difficult looking character of Madhav very well. He has cleverly displayed the quick change of emotions, at every important situation, be it, his guilt after his wife turns blind or his reaction while confessing the truth before his wife. In short, he too has proved his selection right.

In the role of Durva atya, Neena Kulkarni has once again proved that she is still the best; no matter whatever type of role comes to her share. The selection of Sharad Ponkshe and Ashwini Ekbote for their respective roles, is just namesake. At least Ashwini has two scenes to display her acting; but Sharad Ponkshe has been wasted, just as an onlooker in few scenes to his share. Ambarish Deshpande has done a good job, in the role of Meera’s brother, though he has little to his share. All others in the supporting cast, including the kids in initial part of the film, look very realistic in their respective costumes, suited to the era.

‘Taptapadi’ sets the best example of a good period film in Marathi; and does succeed in leaving an impact of its tale on the audience. It is certainly a worth watch.