Panga

Panga is a heartwarming and inspirational Indian film released in 2020, starring Kangana Ranaut, Jassie Gill, and Richa Chadha. Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Panga is a brilliant sports drama that relays a powerful message about realizing your dreams, whatever your age or circumstances. The screenplay is written by Nikhil Mehrotra and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, while the story is penned by Nitesh Tiwari – a trio that ensures that viewers witness an engaging narrative that bristles with elements of humor, emotions, and excitement.

Kangana Ranaut’s character, Jaya Nigam, takes center-stage, delivering a beautifully restrained performance as a former kabaddi champ. As a devoted wife and mother, Jaya has no regrets about hanging up her kabaddi shoes to raise her son, even though she had once reigned supreme in the arena of competitive women's kabaddi. The complex nature of Jaya’s character is well-built right at the start of the film – a sportswoman, a ticket collector at the railway station, a doting wife, a loving mother, and a daughter who is her mother's confidante. Jaya is every woman - juggling different roles and wrestling to maintain a work-life balance.

Set in Bhopal, Panga is a fascinating and refreshing look at small-town India, presenting an authentic middle-class Indian household. The portrayal of routine household activities, the love shared among the family members, the warmth, humor, and foibles of everyday life forms the bedrock of the film. Jaya's supportive husband, Prashant, played by Jassie Gill, is a breath of fresh air in the traditional Indian cinema setup. He willingly takes up household chores, helping to bring up their son, and is Jaya's biggest cheerleader. Richa Chadha shines in her role as Meenu, Jaya's best friend, a mentor, and a tough coach.

The plot takes an interesting turn when Jaya's son innocently questions her previous kabaddi prowess and why she had to give up her passion. This question serves as a wake-up call for Jaya, sparking a desire in her to reclaim her lost glory. The narrative then takes us through Jaya's journey of trying to return to the game at the age of 32, dealing with the challenges of age, physical fitness, and societal stigmas. It is about her grit and determination to be back in the game when everyone else sees her attempt as a foolish venture.

Panga is steeped in feminist ideology and beautifully portrays the struggles of womanhood, the boundaries set by society, and the limitations that women are expected to abide by. However, it skillfully avoids sermonizing, embodying subtlety in passing its significant message along. This effervescent tableau of a woman chasing her dreams is as much an ode to kabaddi – a sport that isn’t too popular in the world but is endowed with a rich heritage in India. The intricacies of kabaddi are skillfully woven into the narrative, making Panga an engrossing watch for sports enthusiasts as well.

Despite the weighty themes, Panga stays grounded in its emotional connect and humor. The comic timing and dialogue delivery of all the actors, especially the young Yagya Bhasin, who plays Jaya's son, brings much-needed lightheartedness in the intense narrative. The impeccable cinematography, immersive background score, and soulful music all contribute to Panga’s undiluted charm.

The brilliance of Panga lies in its simplicity, honesty, and the inherent message that it’s never too late to pursue one's dreams. The film evokes emotions, might make you smile, instigate your tears and would definitely make you cheer for the protagonist who dares to rise above societal norms and follow her dreams. It is a captivating tale of an extraordinary dream seen by an ordinary woman.

In conclusion, Panga provides a potent punch of inspiration, delivered with excellent performances, a riveting storyline, and a praiseworthy depiction of a sport less acknowledged. The movie is a testimony to the fact that dreams have no expiry date, and with determination, persistence, and the right support, it is possible to conquer the toughest of challenges. Panga emphasizes that it's never too late to take your 'Panga' or 'fighting chance' in life.