Gejje Pooje

Gejje Pooje is a 1969 Indian Kannada language drama film directed by renowned filmmaker Puttanna Kanagal. The movie stars a phenomenal cast of Arathi, K.S. Ashwath, and Pandari Bai, in pivotal roles. The screenplay, penned by renowned writer and dramatist M.K. Indira, is inspired by her own novel of the same name. The title, Gejje Pooje, roughly translates to "The Ritual of Marriage," metaphorically hinting at the cinematic journey viewers will be taken on.

The plot of Gejje Pooje revolves around the life of the protagonist, Chenni, played by Arathi, a vibrant and thought-provoking illustration of the societal obstacles faced by women. Chenni, caught in the turbulence of harsh realities, attempts to navigate through a socio-political landscape that treats women as commodities. Arathi's character, Chenni, is a prostitute by profession, forced into the business by heart-wrenching circumstances. She circumvents the stigmas attached to her profession with admirable resilience, continuously striving for dignity and recognition in an unforgiving world.

Chenni's life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters an upright and idealistic lawyer, Rama Gowda (K.S. Ashwath), who becomes an emphatic voice against the dehumanizing practices inflicted upon women in society, specifically on 'devadasis'. His character's dedication to upholding justice and social equality serves as an illuminating beacon, further deepening the complexities of the narrative.

Pandari Bai puts up an invigorating performance as Gowri, a traditional housewife who is intertwined in the web that Gejje Pooje spins. The depiction of her character and the struggles she comes across provides viewers with a contrasting perspective on womanhood and societal expectations.

Gejje Pooje takes a hard look at the draconian customs of Indian society that demean and devalue women. The film does not shy away from scrutinizing the hypocrisies of a supposedly moral society that perpetuates injustice and prejudice, contributing to the marginalization of certain underprivileged communities. Besides its thought-provoking narrative, the movie serves as a critique of the social hierarchies and archaic practices prevalent during the time.

The artistic value of the movie is amplified by the excellent cinematography, which makes a meticulous effort to portray the vividness and raw energy of rural India. The film's soundtrack, directed by Vijaya Bhaskar, is another commendable aspect of the movie - the songs weave beautifully into the narrative, further enriching the emotional depth and cultural setting that frames the story.

The performances from the lead actors are compelling and captivating, with each character challenging societal norms and provoking introspection amongst the audience. The multi-layered narrative and powerful dialogues skilfully illustrate the dichotomies of a rigid caste system and the conservative norms of the 20th-century Indian society.

Puttanna Kangal’s deep-seated understanding of the human experience is the movie’s driving force, as he sympathetically examines the plight of ostracized communities. Gejje Pooje also highlights the significant cross-section of society that is often overlooked in mainstream cinema – the lives of marginalised women and their struggles. It introduces viewers to a world that is intensely personal yet profoundly political.

The director's mastery storytelling makes Gejje Pooje not just a film, but a socio-cultural commentary on the era's Indian society. Additionally, the realistic approach and powerful acting of the characters leave an indelible impact on one’s mind, making Gejje Pooje an unforgettable cinematic experience for film lovers.

In sum, Gejje Pooje is a deep exploration of societal norms, leaving an everlasting impact on the viewer's mind. Celebrated for its strong narrative and exceptional performances, this film transcends into a realm where cinema meets reality. It's not just a movie, but an experience that delves deep into a plethora of emotions and hardships which forces one to reflect on norms, humanity, and the complex social fabric of society. It epitomizes the heart and soul of Indian cinema at its best, making it a must-watch for film enthusiasts around the globe.