Pestonjee

"Pestonjee" is an Indian film that enjoyed substantial praise upon its release in 1988. This intriguing narrative will guide you through the heart-whacking complexities of life, love, and friendship, wrapped in the distinctive culture of the Parsi community of Bombay.

With its star-studded cast featuring some of India's finest actors, including Shabana Azmi, Cyrus Dastoor, and Dady Dustoor, Pestonjee crafts a richly textured portrait of human relationships. The film brilliantly captures the essence and expanse of the Parsi milieu; their unique idiosyncrasies, their language, their traditions, and their struggles with modernity.

Artistically directed by Vijaya Mehta, based on a screenplay by Farrukh Dhondy, Pestonjee tells the story of two best friends Piroj (Cyrus Dastoor) and Pestonjee (Dady Dustoor), fondly called Pesi. These two inseparable pals come across an available, fair, and lovely lady Jeroo (Shabana Azmi). The friends are now at a crossroad as both fall for Jeroo, but their camaraderie refrains them from expressing their feelings. As the story evolves, it takes you through a journey of their life, decisions, and consequences thereof, escalating the drama and emotions at each turn.

Beyond friendship and romantic desire, Pestonjee dives deep into the exploration of relationships at large. It weaves a multilayered narrative that explores the dynamics of marital relationships, the essence of love, the pain of unrequited love, and the value of companionship. Each character is profoundly complex, revealing layers of imperfections, vulnerabilities, and desires, thereby fabricating an authentic picture of everyday life.

The talented Shabana Azmi delivers an expressive spectacle as Jeroo, and Cyrus Dastoor shines as an honest and loving Piroj. Dady Dustoor, playing the titular role, brings an interesting dimension to the character Pestonjee, with his subtle and intricate portrayal rendering a sense of realness to the character.

The cinematography by Jehangir Choudhary adds another layer of depth to the film. The use of light and shadow, the framing of the vibrant and colloquial Parsi living spaces, the bustling Bombay cityscape, and the intimate shots of the characters, all contribute to the atmospheric, mood-driven aesthetic of the film. The background score by Vanraj Bhatia, and the soulful songs composed by Bhupen Hazarika, punctuate the emotional depth of the story.

Furthermore, Pestonjee serves as a sociocultural document, outlining the transition of the Parsi community in India and their negotiation with the urban environment of Bombay. It highlights the nostalgia for a bygone era, community bonds, the joyous occasions of traditional Parsi weddings, and the anxieties over their dwindling numbers and concerns of identity preservation in the rapidly changing world.

Mehta's magnificent implementation of drama and humor, combined with the excellent set design, costumes, and dialogues, add specificity to the Parsi community's portrayal, creating an accurate environment for the unfolding story.

Pestonjee is a beautiful tapestry of relationships and life, enwrapped in the charming Parsi culture. It is an evocative journey that is designed to tug at the heartstrings and make one smile through the tears, leaving an indelible impact on the viewer. It is one of the best exponents of Indian parallel cinema, technically splendid, and packed with powerful performances.

In essence, Pestonjee is a film that talks about love in its many shades, companionship in its varying depths, and life in its myriad hues. It's a cinematic experience that is sure to leave viewers both amused and moved, offering a vivid dive into the unique culture of the Parsi community within India. This movie is a must-watch for those who appreciate the art of storytelling that's finely balanced with emotions, drama, and cultural nuances.