Sharda

Sharda is a riveting Indian Hindi-language drama film released in 1981. The movie is directed by L.V. Prasad, who has been a significant figure in Indian cinema known for his ground-breaking tales of drama and emotion. This eminently engrossing movie features prominent Bollywood actors like Jeetendra, Rameshwari and Sarika Thakur, offering an expressive potency and finesse to their performances.

The film's plot dexterously captures human emotions, vulnerability and relationships, placing characters in intricately complex narratives that echo universal themes of love, despair, redemption and reconciliation. Sharda is named after the central character played by the talented Sarika Thakur, revolving around her journey and the various challenges she faces.

Jeetendra dons the role of Ram, who conveys the sentiment of a dutiful son and a compassionate human being with an authentic touch and extraordinary flair. His character adds a sense of balance and stirs up the emotional quotient of the narrative. Rameshwari, on the other hand, embodies simplicity and charm, and her role is crucial for an intriguing sub-plot and detailing of the main storyline.

Sharda is beautifully penned, moving in an unanticipated yet smooth pace, each twist contributing to the skein of events and leading the audience deeper into the drama. The characters are pretty layered, and each one has a unique backstory that gets unfolded as the film progresses, adding further depth and richness to the storyline.

The cinematography, art direction and editing deserve a special mention as they enhance the narrative's impact, bringing the characters and story to life. The film unfolds in small-town India, and the setting, ambiance, and local culture are captured with evocative precision, creating a captivating landscape for the drama to play out.

The music of the film, composed by the legendary duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, is another highlight of the movie. The exquisite song sequences not only serve as a soothing musical relief but also function as a narrative tool advancing the plot. The melodious track 'Aangan Mein Khushiyon Ki Doli' is still remembered for its intriguing lyrics and melody.

The film raises a variety of potent questions about societal norms, expectations, and prejudices. While a lot of emotions run high throughout the movie, the director always restraint from adopting a melodramatic storytelling style ensuring the narrative comes across as relatable and emotionally genuine.

Sharda, despite being a product of the early '80s, manages to be relevant even today owing to its timeless narrative, motifs, and character exploration. It subtly throws light on the dynamics of the Indian society of the time and the roles and responsibilities of women in particular. It criticises and confronts these societal norms through its protagonist, Sharda, who fights her way through adversity with indomitable spirit and resilience.

The performances of the actors are worth praising, especially Sarika Thakur who shines throughout the movie. Her portrayal of Sharda is heartfelt and honest and resonates deeply with the audience. Jeetendra's performance as Ram is also impactful, and he brings both emotional depths to his character and a charming screen presence. Rameshwari, with her realistic portrayal, adds more credibility to the movie.

Overall, Sharda is a sensitive and thought-provoking film that portrays its characters in a compassionate and realistic light. It strives to delve into complex human emotions, the dynamics of societal and familial interactions, and explores deeply ingrained social norms and prejudices. It is balanced with deft performances and a heart-rendering story that leaves you pondering long after the credits have rolled.