Trikal

Trikal is a 1985 Indian film, written and directed by the renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal. With an ensemble cast that includes Leela Naidu, Neena Gupta, and Anita Kanwar, the film weaves a fascinating tale set against the backdrop of mid-twentieth-century Portuguese-occupied Goa.

As seasoned as its cast are, what sets Trikal apart from many other films is the location, time, and unique socio-political conditions it portrays. The film's universe is Goa in 1961, during the turbulent period leading up to its liberation from Portuguese colonial rule. Benegal sets this historical drama in a fictional, aristocratic Catholic household named "Souza Soares," thereby providing a profoundly insightful, microcosmic perspective on the societal and political changes resonating across the colony.

Leela Naidu plays the commanding matriarch, Dona Maria Souza-Soares, who is reigning over her ostentatious mansion with a distinctly Goan blend of colonial-style prosperity and deep-seated traditional customs. On the other hand, Neena Gupta portrays the enigmatic and spirited young woman Milagrenia, whose love story adds a poignant dimension to the narrative. Anita Kanwar plays the role of Sylvia, ensnaring the audience with her performance of a strong-willed woman caught in the crosscurrents of changing times.

The title of the film, 'Trikal', translates to 'Past, Present, and Future', and aptly so. It masterfully spans across different eras, interweaving flashbacks with the present narrative, presenting a deeply intertwined story of individual lives and collective histories. It moves back and forth in time revealing the labyrinthine saga of the Souza Soares family, their internal discords, romantic liaisons, deep-rooted customs, distinct personalities, and stifling secrets, all set against the backdrop of an impending political upheaval.

Throughout Trikal, Benegal subtly portrays the tension between the old order and the new. The clash between Portuguese influences and the evolving Indian identity is evident in the fluctuation between contrasting attitudes, language, music, food, costumes, and more. The film is an intricate tapestry, representing the diverse mix of East and West that is quintessential Goa, having been highlighted seamlessly in the art direction and cinematography.

As the story unfolds, the film’s narrative deepens with an added sense of mystery. The ghost of a deceased family member haunts the mansion, transcending the physical realm and enhancing the metaphorical weight the story carries. This apparition is not just a spectral entity but also represents the stewardship of past legacies and the angst of unfulfilled destinies.

Above all, Trikal is a study in change - personal, social, and political. Peppered with rich dialogue, it explores the complex emotions of characters grappling with the disintegration of an old life and the unclear promise of a new era. While there are many tragic elements, the film also exudes sardonic humor. It captures the fickleness of human nature with satire and irony, enticing the audience throughout its cinematic storytelling.

The performances in Trikal are uniformly excellent. The distinctly different characters each actor portrays forms a compelling ensemble that leaves a lasting impression. Leela Naidu, with her modern choice of roles, once again leads with an unforgettable performance. Neena Gupta and Anita Kanwar both shine in their roles, skillfully lending complexity and depth to their characters. The supporting cast has also done an exceptional job, adding color to the socio-cultural tapestry of the movie.

The music by Vanraj Bhatia is another highlight of Trikal. The lyrical Portuguese and Konkani songs sync beautifully with the narrative, embellishing the quaint Goan ambiance. The cinematography gives the viewers the experience of living in the vibrant landscape of Goa while also capturing the haunting beauty of the Soares mansion.

In conclusion, Trikal is considered one of the classics of Indian cinema. It is a piece of ostensibly simple yet layered storytelling, intermingling colorful Goan culture with the heavier themes of history, personal turmoil, and political upheaval. Through the lives of its complex characters and the shifting socio-political backdrop, the film offers more than just entertainment – it delivers a slice of forgotten history and a richly layered cultural experience. Shyam Benegal, with Trikal, expertly navigates the space where the personal intersects with the political, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate nuanced, humanist cinema.