Teesri Kasam

Teesri Kasam is a classic Indian film released in 1966, starring the legendary Raj Kapoor, the stunning Waheeda Rehman, and the distinguished Dulari. This Hindi drama presents an enchanting tale from the rural India of the 1960s while flawlessly blending the elements of romance, emotion, and a distinctive sense of social realism.

Directed by Basu Bhattacharya with story and screenplay by Phanishwar Nath ‘Renu’, Teesri Kasam takes us to a world far removed from the jazzy city lights. The film explores the journey of Hiraman (Raj Kapoor), a naïve bullock-cart driver believed to naïvely operate on his set of principles which he earmarked as his 'kasams' (promises).

Raj Kapoor delivers an awe-inspiring act with his portrayal of Hiraman, a simple, innocent, and poor village man. His character's resilience in keeping his principles intact, despite severe adversities, forms the backbone of the movie. Hiraman has a seldom discussed backstory, however, the narrative suggests that every 'kasam' he takes is stemmed from a past mistake. His first two 'kasams' were based on his own life experiences, leading to his third 'kasam' - the Teesri Kasam.

Waheeda Rehman, as Hirabai, is an alluring and seemingly joyful nautanki dancer she carries with her an unspoken sense of melancholy. The chemistry between the lead characters is incredibly portrayed, with Hiraman's pure admiration for Hirabai and the latter's growing fondness for him unfolding beautifully. Hirabai's character brilliantly epitomizes the social stigma endured by women in performing arts during the era while showcasing her struggle to seek respect and love.

The film graphically portrays the countryside with its vivid portrayal of rustic life - depicting Phanishwar Nath’s love for his North Indian heartland. He beautifully etches Bihar's rural landscapes and traditions into the narrative. The use of Bhojpuri dialect in the dialogs adds an extra layer of authenticity to this cinematic piece.

The social commentary subtly embedded in the storyline is commendable. It touches upon the plight of artists who are appreciated for their craft but not accepted socially. It also mirrors the naivety and simplicity of the villagers, along with the strong principles they uphold.

Music plays a significant role in the film. Composed by the illustrious Shankar-Jaikishan, the soulful soundtrack is not just a collection of songs, but it acts as a narrative device driving the story forward. The iconic song 'Duniya Bananewale', sung by Mukesh, beautifully encapsulates the life's philosophy while offering a glimpse into Hiraman's character.

It’s impossible to mention the movie without acknowledging the cultural and cinematic contributions made by late Shailendra, a well-known lyricist, and producer of the film. His aspiration to have a production house led to the creation of this movie as his maiden venture under Shailendra Productions. Despite the movie's initial commercial failure, it bagged the prestigious President’s Gold Medal for the All India Best Feature Film.

Teesri Kasam is a remarkable film that thrives on simplicity and an essential slice of cinematic history that harks back to a time when storytelling was paramount. Despite its melancholic undertones, it manages to capture the innocence, beauty, and nuances of rural India in all its glory. It is often hailed as a touchstone in the history of Indian cinema for its lyrical storytelling and phenomenal performances.

In conclusion, Teesri Kasam is a lovingly crafted tapestry of music, performance, and social realism that offers a refreshing dive into an almost forgotten era. A must-watch for anyone who appreciates classic Indian Cinema that not only entertains but also leaves you with a profound understanding of a distant yet alluring India that once was.