Hyderabad Blues

Hyderabad Blues, a film that hit the Indian cinema in the year 1998, was a thoroughly refreshing break from the mainstream Bollywood masala movies. Directed and acted in by Nagesh Kukunoor, the movie opened a new vista in Indian cinema by introducing the concept of indie cinema. Breaking away from the charade of song-dance routine, the movie provides a realistic yet gripping account of cultural clashes that a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) faces on his return to the homeland. Along with Nagesh Kukunoor, actors such as Rajshri Nair and Vikram Inamdar give life to other significant characters, making it an enjoyable, meaningful cinema.

The plot revolves around Varun (Nagesh Kukunoor), a comfortably settled, Indian-American residing in New York City. He makes a trip back to his hometown, Hyderabad, after many years with an intention of spending six weeks vacation. It is this emotional expedition that the movie lays emphasis on. As he navigates through his days in Hyderabad; he encounters a stark clash of the conservative, traditional Indian ethos with the laid-back, liberated lifestyle that he had been accustomed to. The film brilliantly unravels Varun's struggle to reconcile with the cultural differences, manifesting through the effervescent humour and sharp, striking dialogues.

Hyderabad Blues immerses the viewers into a wholesome experience of self-discovery with the protagonist, etching out the nuances of evolving relationships, familial ties, friendship and love in its unique frame. As Varun grapples with the impending pressure of marriage, the character of Ashwini (Rajshri Nair) is introduced, who is a strong-willed, dynamic doctor with a charming personality. The chemistry between Varun and Ashwini equates to a spicy, quirky banter, giving the viewers some delightfully humorous moments to cherish.

Nagesh Kukunoor, who wrote, directed and also played the lead role, indeed makes the movie a versatile venture. His performance as Varun is sincere, realistic and resonates with a charming ease, bringing out the essence of his character in a seamless manner. On the other hand, the portrayal of Ashwini by Rajshri Nair is commendable as she skillfully depicts the strong Indian woman who dares to challenge the conventional norms. Furthermore, Vikram Inamdar's role adds to the harmony of the plot, introducing a different angle of complexities and familial ties.

However, Hyderabad Blues is much more than just a film, it's a cultural journey, a heartwarming window into the lives of thousands of Indians residing abroad, homesick yet uncomfortable when back in their hometown. Nagesh Kukunoor offers a realistic take on cross-culture integration by presenting an unbiased portrayal of both Western and Indian ways, without favouring or demeaning either side.

What adds richness to the narrative is the movie's cinematic elements. Right from its cinematography to screenplay, it's clear that the film doesn’t follow any established norms of storytelling. The absence of any background score or the blatant display of indie-style raw filmmaking gives it an absolute naturalistic touch. The simple yet charmingly lit alleys of Hyderabad, the bustling chaos of the cityscape forms an integral part of the scenario which often blends beautifully with the evolving plot.

Despite having a relatively small budget, Hyderabad Blues managed to leave an indelible impact in the conscience of cinema-goers. It set a fresh trend for low-budget, indie movies in Indian cinema, paving the way for more honest narratives to come forth. The film is believed to mark the beginning of the new wave of Indian cinema, steering away from the stereotypical storylines and indulging in a sphere of relatable characters, incidents and emotions.

In a nutshell, Hyderabad Blues is a celebration of old-world charm and modern sensibilities, painted in the colourful canvas of cultural differences. It's an exploration of self, identity, acceptance and incorporation, graced with a warm touch of humour and wit. The film is a must-watch for those who appreciate art-house cinema and revel in narratives that escape the mainstream, bringing forth a refreshing change in the cinematic landscape.