Traces Of Sandalwood

Traces of Sandalwood is a poignant, heartfelt film that takes its viewer across continents from the bustling world of Bollywood in Mumbai to the serene and picturesque landscapes of Barcelona. The 2014 film unites various acclaimed talents, showcasing a brilliant ensemble casting featuring Nandita Das, Aina Clotet, and Vaibhavi Hankare. The film creates an enigmatic bridge between two cultures, placing a significant emphasis on matters of family bondings, cultural identity, memory, and love.

The film revolves around two sisters, Mina (Nandita Das) and Sita (Vaibhavi Hankare). Mina, the elder of the two, is a renowned actress in India's prolific film industry, Bollywood. Sita, on the other hand, is a researcher in Barcelona, completely detached from her Indian roots.

The sisters are separated in their childhood due to the intricacies of their life circumstances, with the young Mina taking the daunting responsibility to ensure a better future for her young sister. She arranges for Sita to be adopted by a family in Barcelona, hoping that this difficult decision would be the best for her beloved sister.

The narrative of Traces of Sandalwood unfolds decades later, as the now successful adult Mina embarks on a journey to reconnect with her long-lost sister across the continents. The film subtly reveals the contrast between their worlds, showcasing the vibrant and chaotic colors, sounds, and extravaganza of Bollywood, juxtaposing this with the calm, serene, and intellectually stimulating environment of Barcelona's scientific community where Sita is immersed.

Mina's journey to Barcelona lands her in Sita's world, a world different than anything she has known, and Sita has grown up as 'Paula,' with no memory of her origin or her past life with Mina. This provides a storyline brimming with curiosity and intrigue as Mina attempts to reveal their shared past to Paula, who now lives a life completely detached from her Indian heritage.

Nandita Das plays an excellent role as Mina, a strong and determined older sibling who is fiercely protective, a role that is relatable to anyone with siblings. She portrays her character with a depth of emotion that ably showcases the heartbreak and turmoil of their separation, the strong desire to connect with her sister, and the struggles she faces in a foreign land.

Aina Clotet plays Paula, the grown-up Sita. The personal journey that Clotet undertakes during the film is captivating, etching a fascinating transformation of a western woman who slowly unravels the Indian culture that she's been disconnected from. This culture shock and the journey to understand her origins provide the film with a meaningful arc.

Vaibhavi Hankare enacts young Sita, the innocent child whose life changes dramatically. Her portrayal of the young and vulnerable Sita in the early part of the film sets the emotional tone for the upcoming events.

Traces of Sandalwood is a film about finding roots, reconnecting with one's identity, and the powerful bond of sisterhood. The movie cleverly uses the metaphor of 'Sandalwood,' which symbolizes the roots and ties to one's past and one's culture, hence the title 'Traces of Sandalwood.' The film doesn't shy away from portraying the multifaceted Indian culture and its loud, vibrant, love-struck, spiritual aspects, intertwined with the more grounded, sleek, and modern culture of Barcelona.

Director Maria Ripoll and scriptwriter Anna Soler-Pont weave together a compelling and emotional narrative that is beautifully rendered on screen. The cinematography is awe-inspiring, with shots of both Mumbai and Barcelona showcasing their respective characteristics and vibrancy. The movie's soundtrack subtly enhances the storytelling experience, using a fine blend of both Indian and Spanish compositions.

In conclusion, Traces of Sandalwood is a heartwarming movie that brilliantly portrays the universal theme of familial love and the search for cultural identity. It offers a unique and intense cross-continental, multicultural narrative that resonates with global viewers. The performances by Nandita Das, Aina Clotet, and Vaibhavi Hankare add authenticity and depth to the story, creating a cinematic experience that lingers in the heart long after the film has ended.