Jaise Ko Taisa

"Jaise Ko Taisa" is a 1973 Bollywood classic, featuring Jeetendra and Reena Roy in the lead roles, and supported by Srividya and other well-known faces in Indian cinema. Mixed with drama,e emotive dialogue, and vibrant music, this Bollywood film encapsulates the spirit of the Indian cinematic era of the 70s.

The film centers around two brothers, Shekhar (Jeetendra) and Ravi (also played by Jeetendra in a double role), who lead completely different lives due to circumstances that occurred at their birth. With only their mother (Kamini Kaushal) keeping the twin brothers connected, their destinies lead them through a labyrinth of experiences filled with unexpected turns and complex relationships.

Shekhar is a criminal, living the rough, unpredictable life of a gangster. Jeetendra encapsulates the essence of the 'bad boy', expertly portraying the complexities of Shekhar's character and ensuring the audience empathizes with his struggles. Despite being bogged down by a world of crime, Shekhar retains a soft heart for the only person who never abandoned him – his mother.

On the other hand, Ravi is a law-abiding, virtuous individual who cherishes his extended family and remaining individuals from his mother's side. He lives with his Aunt and Uncle, who raised him from infancy after an unexpected twist of fate separates him from his mother and brother. Ravi's life is an entirely stark contrast to Shekhar's, with the former enjoying a life of luxury and the privilege of a good education.

Reena Roy plays dual roles as well, personifying the characters of Alka and Seema. With one character romantically linked to Shekhar and the other to Ravi, she brings the charm of yesteryear's Bollywood heroine into the film. Her charismatic on-screen presence pairs incredibly well with Jeetendra, and their performances together add a touch of the romantic, nostalgic Bollywood appeal. The extended cast comprises of Srividya, known for her elegance and impeccable acting, who adds a nuanced layer to the character of Minnie.

An intriguing point about "Jaise Ko Taisa" is its exploration of the age-old argument of nature versus nurture. The narrative explores how upbringing and surroundings can significantly influence an individual's personality while also leaving room for inherent nature to play a part.

The movie is directed by Murugan Kumaran, who artfully weaves this tale of two brothers, involving the elements of suspense, drama, romance, and comedy. The story and screenplay are by K.S. Prakash and Kishore Sahu, respectively, making the movie a captivating watch with its dramatic twists and turns.

The music of "Jaise Ko Taisa" is its backbone, composed by the phenomenal duo Kalyanji-Anandji. The melodious tunes, lyrics, and soulful renditions make the songs memorable even decades later. The vibrant costumes, typical of the 70s, with bright colors and patterns, yield a grand visual effect.

Moreover, the film explores diverse emotional themes - familial bonds, romance, suspense, spirituality, and the eternal tussle between good and evil. Jeetendra's performance in the double role is remarkable, as he effortlessly slips from one character to another, showcasing his range as an actor. Similarly, Reena Roy captures the hearts of the viewers with her portrayal of the two contrasting characters.

"Jaise Ko Taisa" emerges as a complete Bollywood masala movie, a genre popular during the ’70s. While the movie is filled with suspense and action, it also provides an equal measure of soft romance to balance the intensity of the storyline.

Altogether, the 1973 classic "Jaise Ko Taisa" is an intriguing narrative featuring stellar performances by the cast. It represents the golden era of Bollywood, with its unique mixture of comedy, tragedy, melodrama, romance, and its iconic music. The film is a brilliant depiction of human nature, relationships, and moral dilemmas. It serves audiences with a satisfying cinematic experience that has withstood the test of time.