This is a movie from 1964, but feels as if it has released tomorrow. Gripping, engaging and touching, the movie reminded me of The Pursuit of Happiness, starring Will and Jada Pinkett Smith. Although the plot lines are different, both have a father going all the way to make life better for his son.
The plot revolves around Army man Shankar (Kishore Kumar) who returns to his village to find his home burnt down in an accident, his father and wife killed in the accident and his son going mute due to the trauma. Shankar leaves the village in an attempt to get his son medically treated and have his voice back. Along the way, he must fend off a ferocious landlord and his sons along with a dreaded bandit who supposes he is the romantic interest of a beautiful, wealthy and respected girl played by Supriya Chowdhury who has caught the eyes of the lascivious son (Iftekar) of the landlord.
Kishore Kumar delivers a poignant performance that is terrific, and is just the opposite of the madcap comedies he is known for. The film has many of the elements of Bollywood spicy movies, but everything is kept subtle. In her Hindi role, Supriya Chowdhury is apt and grace personified. Amit Kumar, Kishore Kumar's son, delivers an amazing performance as the mute Ramu who can put his life in the line to save his dad. The film has wonderful music composed by Kishore Kumar himself, with gems like the title track, Koi Lauta De Mere Beete Hue Din and Aa Chalke Tujhe. He directed the film on a shoestring budget, aided by the money he got from pawning his mother's jewelry (who was willing to see him as director), and delivered a blockbuster that ran for 23 weeks.
Above all, the movie is a testament to one man's desire to see his son well and his son's wish to see his dad happy and alive. A good movie with a happy ending that should be watched again and again. There is also some good action and the final stunt is praiseworthy. I am giving this a 10 on 10.
