Saaz

Saaz is a 1997 Indian Hindi drama film that brilliantly merges the love of music with a tale of sibling rivalry. Directed by Sai Paranjpye, the film features renowned actors such as Shabana Azmi, Aruna Irani, and musician Zakir Hussain in prominent roles. Heavily flavoured with traditional Indian melodies and heart-rendering music, Saaz is an intriguing convergence of drama, music, and human emotion. The story draws inspiration from the lives of the famous singing sisters of Bollywood, Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, whilst successfully maintaining its original narrative.

The plot revolves around the musical journey of two sister characters, Mansi, portrayed by Shabana Azmi, and Bansi, brought to life by Aruna Irani. The film flourishes itself as a tale of two gifted women, where music blissfully surrounds their lives, becoming an integral part of their journey.

Shabana Azmi plays Mansi, the elder and more responsible sister who has grown up in an environment of music, breathed it, and naturally embraced it in her life. Mansi is an introverted character who is more focused on perfecting her art than gaining popularity in the music industry. Her character flawlessly portrays a woman who is so heavily engrossed in her passion for music that she loses sight of her personal ambitions in the backdrop of her sister’s rising stardom.

On the contrary, Aruna Irani as Bansi perfectly counters her sister's introspective nature. Bansi is a character filled with ambition, willing to make tough choices to achieve fame. Her desire for glory overshadows her elder sister's love for music, and the narrative beautifully showcases this contrast. The audience is introduced to a Bansi who is bold, passionate, and unafraid to challenge societal norms, demonstrating the difference between working for passion and working for fame—two sides of the same coin.

Playing a pivotal role, Zakir Hussain portrays the character of Kishan, a lyricist who becomes ensnared in the stormy relationship of the two sisters. The captivating trio adds an essential dynamic to the storyline that underlines the complexity of human relationships and the profound impact of ambitions and dreams on personal lives.

The film’s title, "Saaz," which translates to a musical instrument, is symbolic in nature. It is blended effortlessly into the storyline to amplify its narrative and screen presentation. While the film is not a biography, it threads significant reality into fiction with incredible precision. Saaz recounts the symbiotic relationship between art and the artist, between the melody and the instrument—paying an ode to the unsung heroes who contribute significantly to the realm of music but seldom share the limelight.

Sai Paranjpye's directed film captures all the intricate struggles that one has to endure in the music industry and the reality of sacrifice, hard work, and determination necessary to achieve excellence. The story unfolds in a gripping and highly emotional series of events that challenges the audience's perspective on the notion of success.

The film's narrative isn’t just about the struggle for fame but subtly brings forth the emotional turmoil, rivalry, jealousy, and the bond of sisterhood that exists within the sphere of struggle. Each scene and character is designed to add depth to the storyline, from the charming and supportive family of the two sisters to the conniving music industry's manipulative ways.

At its core, Saaz is a tribute to the spirit of music and its practitioners, celebrating their dedication, passion, and the vivid palette of emotions that they evoke through their performances. The powerful performances by Shabana Azmi and Aruna Irani add to the film's immersive experience. The music by Zakir Hussain and Bhupen Hazarika strikes the right chord, complimenting every emotional beat, and painting a rich audible tapestry that perfectly resonates with the narrative's tone.

In closing, Saaz is not just a film—it's an exploration of the music industry's highs and lows, an illustration of behind-the-scene realities, and a celebration of the indomitable spirit of those who breathe music into their lives. It's a poignant story of talent and ambition, shrouded in the realm of love, rivalry, and sisterhood. With its hallmarked direction, immersive performances, and melodious soundtracks, Saaz stands as a testament to the trials and tribulations faced by unsung heroes in the world of music and art.