I Am Kalam

I Am Kalam is a heartwarming, Indian drama film directed by Nila Madhab Panda and released in 2010. The film features acclaimed actors Gulshan Grover, Harsh Mayar, and Pitobash in leading roles. The movie is widely celebrated for its powerful performance by Harsh Mayar, gripping storytelling and prudent depiction of complex societal issues.

The narrative of I Am Kalam is centered around a young boy named Chhotu, played by Harsh Mayar, who lives in the underprivileged rural areas of Rajasthan. Chhotu, an indomitable and optimistic spirit, is an embodiment of both innocence and ambition. Despite his challenging circumstances, he dreams big and aspires to rise above his current situation. His life takes a drastic turn when he watches a television broadcast of a speech by the former Indian President, APJ Abdul Kalam. Inspired by the story of Kalam's humble beginnings and his rise to become the President, Chhotu decides to change his name to 'Kalam' and dreams of breaking the cycle of poverty to achieve something substantial in his life.

I Am Kalam offers an extraordinary journey of young Kalam who works at a dhaba (roadside cafe), owned by Bhati (Gulshan Grover), a kind-hearted man who becomes a father figure and mentor to Kalam. As the narrative progresses, Kalam forms an unlikely friendship with Ranvijay (Husaan Saad), a boy who belongs to an aristocratic family. Their camaraderie is endearing and offers a significant story arc that paradoxically displays the social hierarchy and class difference prevalent in Indian society.

The two young boys, despite being on the opposite ends of the social spectrum, find a common ground in their shared love for storytelling. Kalam, with his sheer grit and zest for life, sets out on a tour-de-force to achieve his dreams and surpass societal barriers.

The film navigates the issues of child labor, poverty, negligence towards primary education, and societal division present in Indian society, with a sensitive and empathetic gaze. While it shines a light on these complicated subjects, it maintains an inspiring tone, championing resilience, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of a child.

Gulshan Grover, playing the character of Bhati, the roadside dhaba owner, epitomizes the crucial mentor figure with an empathetic and nuanced performance. His character provides layers to the story, juxtaposing the intense struggle of Kalam with moments of relief, thereby blending the harsh realities with heartfelt moments. The portrayal of his character delves deep, showing not just a business owner but a person with flaws and fear, who yet attempts to act as a guiding beacon for Kalam.

Harsh Mayar, who plays Kalam, is truly the heart of this cinematic piece. He delivers an evocative performance and succeeds in invoking strong emotive responses from cinema-goers. His earnest and lively portrayal is bound to resonate and create a lasting impression.

The film's magnetic quality is further amplified by the superior performances put forth by the supporting cast. One of the noteworthy performances is by Pitobash, who enhances the narrative with his character's charming idiosyncrasies and humor.

I Am Kalam’s cinematography is riveting and captures the essence of the rural terrain of Rajasthan perfectly, embodying the essence of traditional India. The music score of the film composed by Susmit Bose and Abhishek Ray is equally impressive and enhances the narrative's emotional depth.

The film is essentially a tale of two India - one that is privileged and abundant, and the other that remains on the sidelines, forgotten and often overlooked. It brings to light the grave issue faced by underprivileged children who are forced into labor at an early age, leaving no room for dreams or aspirations.

Overall, I Am Kalam is an honest, compassionate and inspiring film that strives to be an embodiment of hope. It nudges us to introspect about the prevalent socio-economic divide in society and entices us to idealize education as a powerful medium of positive change and upliftment. This film is a compelling watch which leaves you in deep appreciation for the resilient human spirit that battles and transcends adversities.