Gowarikar's Mughal-e-Awesome

Three cheers to Ashutosh Gowarikar for making Jodhaa Akbar. As I mentioned in my earlier post, I salute him for his rare courage and directorial vision to make a film of this genre in India. It's easy for critics to pick holes in the film, it's easier for people to say that the film distorts history (without bothering to see it). But I think what is more important is that he held on to his dream for nearly three years and translated it onto the screen with as much integrity and honesty that was visible in Lagaan and Swades. And let's not forget that he has done his due diligence on the subject and also been frank enough to admit that the film is 30% history and 70% imagination.

Since I am not a critic and I prefer being a film watcher, there is no point talking about the loopholes in the story and its sloppy script (as some bloggers and critics have pointed out). So I would avoid any analysis of the film. I think I enjoyed what I saw. In fact, I wanted the story to go on at its leisurely pace even after almost three and a half hours of viewing. It was almost like watching life in an era gone by. Everything--from battles, romance to intrigues and courtroom drama--seemed to follow an order that had its own logic (much like life), and not dictated by any commercially-driven script. Even if it did not have the big pull factor of an epic tragedy or an imperial drama, JA had the broad canvas to depict the life and times of an emperor with a secular heart and mind. No problem if the film did not show the grey shades in his character, sometimes it is more refreshing to see positive human emotions play out in idealistic scenarios.

What else? Kiran Deohans' cinematography was breathtaking, ARR's music was divine, Nitin Desai's art direction was appealing, and the lead stars Hrithik and Ash looked like the most exquisite creations on earth. Combine that with some of the most well shot battle scenes in the history of Indian films (please dont compare it to Troy or Gladiator--those guys work with very big budgets) .

To sign off, I think the film has a shimmering quality to it that one associates with a great historical, though it is nowhere near the masterpiece that I was expecting from Gowarikar. It definitely has an international look and feel to it. Any overseas Indian would be happy to show it to people from other parts of the world and say..'this is a slice of India's glorious history'.

Jodhaa Akbar should make a lot a money for its producers both in India and overseas. It will give enough muscle and confidence to Gowarikar to attempt more ostentatious and magnificent ventures in the future. Such guys need more support and encouragement from the viewers and producers. Most importantly for the film industry, he has opened a new market for the genre of Indian historicals. Gowarikar, you are there on top of my list of favourite directors. I hope you continue to show the promise and rightfully inherit the legacy of K Asif (Mughal-e-azam) and Mehboob Khan (Mother India).

Also Read

Every Rajput must watch Jodhaa Akbar: Gowariker
Jodhaa Akbar more liked than Lagaan: Ashutosh