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Aakrosh

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1980

Aakrosh, a 1980 Indian drama film centered around the social and political issues prevailing in the society of that era, is directed by Govind Nihalani. The film's ensemble cast features stalwarts of Indian cinema like Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, and Smita Patil.

The plot of Aakrosh goes straight into the heart of societal divisions and exploitation of the downtrodden. Om Puri plays Lahanya Bhiku – a tribal, who is falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit. Unable to pay bribe to corrupt officials, trapped in the clutches of the ruthless law enforcement system and silenced by the unjust practices of the society, he ends up in prison. His only ray of hope is an upright and diligent city-bred lawyer, Bhaskar Kulkarni, played compellingly by Naseeruddin Shah.

When Kulkarni, who has recently graduated from law school, is assigned Bhiku's case, he is optimistic about ensuring justice. Nonetheless, he soon realizes that the societal rot is far deeper than he'd ever anticipated. Throughout the movie, Kulkarni battles relentless bureaucratic red tape, menacing threats, systemic corruption, casteist prejudices, and apathy.

Smita Patil, known for her ability to eloquently portray ordinary women afflicted with issues of social justice, plays Nagi, Lahanya Bhiku's sister. Her character portrays the struggles of women amidst patriarchal oppression with heart-wrenching potency. Patil delivers a tour de force performance, at once representing an individual story of personal suffering, and at the same time, symbolizing the wider prevalence of gender-based prejudices.

Aakrosh is not a conventional Bollywood film. Rather, it is a haunting social commentary on the forces that silence marginalized voices, and the desperate lengths to which a corrupt system can go to maintain status quo. Director Govind Nihalani uses the cinematic medium to shine a light on the socio-political hindrances of India, an aspect that was infrequently explored in popular Indian cinema during the era of its release.

The title, Aakrosh, which translates to 'Cry of the Wounded,' is fittingly symbolic. It is not just a reference to the immense agony of the lead character; it also serves to magnify the resonance of innumerable muted voices. Ajit Verman's poignant background score underlines the ambiance of the tale, while the sensitive yet stark cinematography of V.K. Murthy reflects the narrative's intensity.

Aakrosh is an amalgam of the craft of a dedicated director, the undeniable talent of a strong cast, and a social narrative that refuses to shy away from dark realities. The performances stand out and are suitably highlighted by the down-to-earth screenplay. Om Puri, with his portrayal of the hapless Bhiku, demonstrates the profound depth of his acting abilities. Naseeruddin Shah, as the determined but embittered lawyer, is remarkable in his role. And, Smita Patil brings an illuminated intensity to her tragically stifled character.

Despite Aakrosh being his directorial debut, Nihalani deftly manages to portray the harsh realities of societal strata that choose to repress the downtrodden, while pressing on the festering turmoil it brews within them. It's a bleak revelation intended to provoke thought and dialogue.

In sum, Aakrosh is a potent social drama that invites viewers to engage in critical conversation regarding societal norms and attitudes that were, unfortunately, prevalent in that era, and continue to persist in many parts today. The film offers no easy solutions or cathartic release. Instead, it forces the audience to question the system and contemplate the cyclical nature of oppression. Through its impactful storytelling, Aakrosh succeeds in voicing out the silent cries and presenting a gripping, heartbreaking narrative that remains relevant even today. It therefore deserves its place among the most influential and striking works in the annals of Indian cinema.

Aakrosh is a Drama movie released in 1980. It has a runtime of 144 min. Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 7.9..

7.9/10
Director
Govind Nihalani
Stars
Naseeruddin Shah, Smita Patil, Amrish Puri, Om Puri
Genres