Ghar Ho Tho Aisa

Ghar Ho Tho Aisa is an Indian family drama film, directed by Kalpataru and released in 1990. Featuring a superb ensemble cast that includes cinematic heavyweights Anil Kapoor, Meenakshi Sheshadri, and Raj Kiran, the film serves as a classic exemplification of negotiation between traditional values and emerging societal norms in late 20th-century India.

The storyline revolves around the dynamics of a middle-class Indian family. The family, led by the matriarch Badi Maa, played by Dina Pathak, and her sons, the humble and gentle Amar (Anil Kapoor) and the stern and tradition-bound Bajrangi (Raj Kiran), encapsulates most families in Indian society where everyone is expected to cede to the decisions of the elders.

Anil Kapoor, as Amar, is the youngest of the household, and yet, unlike his other siblings, he keeps the well-being of everyone at heart. Kapoor’s brilliant performance breathes life into the character of Amar, a refreshing counterpoint to the stern demeanor of Bajrangi, who adheres strictly to norms and conventions while maintaining a strong sense of authority and power over his younger brother and sister-in-law, Seema, played by Meenakshi Sheshadri.

Meenakshi Sheshadri’s portrayal of Seema, Amar’s adoring and thoughtful sister-in-law, is one of the cornerstones of the film. Her character embodies the struggles of countless women who traverse the challenging path of fulfilling domestic responsibilities while also aspiring to break free from the societal chains. Despite being subjected to harsh treatment by her husband, Bajrangi, her endearing nature and dedication towards her family remain unshaken, providing a testament to her resilience and strength.

The film gains momentum when the family brings in a bride, Sulakshana Pandit as Sunita, for Amar. As the plot unravels, it becomes evident that the protective brother, the dutiful wife Seema, and the new bride share a common bond of discontentment with the ongoing injustice and traditional bind in their household. The momentum builds as an overarching question hangs in the air- Will they muster the courage to challenge the authority and fight for their rights, for a better home?

With the characters’ blossoming friendships, brewing love stories, and gut-wrenching personal challenges, Ghar Ho Tho Aisa is a gripping emotional roller coaster that takes audiences on a journey through the many aspects of Indian household dynamics.

In terms of cinematic artistry, the director, Kalpataru, portrayed the intricacies of family relationships in a way that was unique to films of the era. He beautifully used the power of emotion and drama to deliver a narrative that was both humorous and heart-wrenching at the same time.

The movie is also remarkable for its soundtracks. The scoring, combined with the intense and emotional performances of the lead characters, truly amplified the authenticity of the storyline. The film blends elements of comedy, drama, romance and features some of the most melodic and memorable songs from this period in Bollywood.

To sum it up, Ghar Ho Tho Aisa is a remarkable piece of cinema that highlights the societal norms and traditions of a typical Indian household in the late 20th century and explores how the main characters navigate through these established norms to feud for a healthy and harmonious home. The film's brilliance also lies in its relatability, where viewers can see a reflection of their own families, their practices, their feuds, their love.

The performances of Anil Kapoor, Meenakshi Sheshadri, and the supporting cast bring the intricacies of Indian household dynamics to life, making it a must-watch for any fan of classical Bollywood cinema. It serves as a fitting tribute to a time when storytelling was as much about content as it was about star power. A sparkling gem from the 90s era of Bollywood, Ghar Ho Tho Aisa, continues to resonate with audiences even today with its timeless message about respect, love, and fight for dignity in a family setup.