Ankhon Dekhi

Ankhon Dekhi, a 2013 Indian drama film, is an artistic amalgamation of philosophical introspection and human emotions. The film is written and directed by Rajat Kapoor, and is graced by the exceptional performances of Sanjay Mishra and Seema Pahwa. The movie invites us into a peculiar world of a man who decides to believe only what his eyes see, and embarks on an existential journey, weaving a story rich with humor, warmth, and rare wisdom.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Delhi's Chandni Chowk locality, Ankhon Dekhi spins an intriguing tale around the life of its 55-year-old protagonist, Raje Bauji, played by seasoned actor Sanjay Mishra. Bauji is a man appreciated for his age, but not given much respect by his family. Amid the humdrum of middle-class life, an unexpected incident triggers an epiphany moment in Bauji's life, which changes him and his perspective about life significantly.

Bauji decides that henceforth, he will believe only what he witnesses himself, discarding hearsay and presumed knowledge. His decision generates a sort of bittersweet chaos in his family and surroundings, leading to a constant struggle between his philosophy and societal norms. The narrative of the movie mostly revolves around how this Pagliacci-like character navigates his eccentric path, affecting and surprising those around him with his unpretentious insight and candid wisdom.

Sanjay Mishra delivers a heartfelt performance as Raje Bauji, showcasing his versatility and exceptional acting prowess. His character draws viewers in and strikes a chord with his effortless portrayal of hilarity, pathos, and wisdom rolled into one character. Equally captivating is the performance of Seema Pahwa, who effectively portrays the role of Bauji's spouse – a woman who balances her own frustrations with love and respect for her husband.

Rajat Kapoor, the helmer of the film, is successful in creating an authentic portrayal of a middle-class family, their relationships, their arguments, and their bonding moments. His narrative style is clever, subtle, and engaging. Kapoor also includes a small cast of eccentric characters who add a hint of quirkiness to the story, contributing to an exploration of fundamental existential questions in a refreshingly unique manner.

Besides its philosophical undertone, Ankhon Dekhi shines in its nuanced depiction of a middle-class Indian family, breaking away from stereotypes to present a picture that is deeply grounded in reality and relatable to its audience. It examines the quotidian – the dinner-time banters, the sulking silences, the hassles of shared bathrooms – with an empathetic gaze, often culminating in poignant moments of everyday triumphs and heartbreaks.

Cinematography is another high point of the movie. The narrow lanes, run-down houses, and bustling markets of Old Delhi are gorgeously captured, adding a touch of authenticity and a flavor of the locale to the proceedings. The background score, composed by Sagar Desai, is soulful and adds an additional layer to the narrative, blending perfectly with the theme and mood of the film.

Ankhon Dekhi is not just a movie; it's a fable, a thought-provoking journey that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll. Through a simple and straightforward plot, the film embarks on an exploration of life, existence, perceived reality, and the limitations of blind faith. It subtly challenges us to question our beliefs and consider the possibility of an alternate perception or perspective.

The movie is not without its share of humor. Often, the funniest moments arrive unexpectedly, springing out of the most ordinary situations. Yet, the humor is organic, deriving from the character’s pure innocence and the ludicrousness of certain circumstances.

In conclusion, while Ankhon Dekhi may not be the typical commercial Bollywood fare, it's a must-watch for anyone seeking cinema that provokes thought and elicits emotion. The film’s strength lies in its unpretentious storytelling, underlined by a deep philosophical introspection that is both rare and appealing. It boasts of a wonderful script, stellar performances, and a narrative that gently nudges viewers to reflect upon their perceived realities. In its essence, it’s more than a film – it’s a meditation on existence and perception, making it a standout amongst the countless films emerging from Indian cinema.