Sadabahar

Sadabahar is, quite frankly, a masterclass in wasted potential. Compelled to give this film a chance after reading glowing reviews, I was left utterly baffled by the disconnect between its supposed acclaim and the reality of watching it. What could have been a poignant exploration of loneliness and connection instead turns into a slow, painful chore to sit through. And mind you, I don't mind slow-paced films-when done well, they can be deeply moving-but Sadabahar lacks the emotional depth or compelling storytelling to justify its glacial pace.

Let's start with Jaya Bachchan, who disappoints in her portrayal of Amrita Kothari. Her performance is confusing, inconsistent, and utterly unconvincing. At one moment, she's depicted as a confident woman venturing out on her own, and in the next, she's timid and scared. The character flip-flops so often that it's impossible to understand who Amrita truly is. This isn't nuanced character development-it's just bad writing.

The locations are another glaring issue. Instead of feeling lived-in and authentic, they are overly clean and excessively decorated, creating a stage-like quality that disconnects the audience from the story. The artificial production design strips the film of any emotional grounding or realism.

The screenplay fares no better. It drags endlessly, offering nothing fresh or compelling to engage the audience. The moments meant to be poignant or reflective instead feel dull and cliché. Even the central element of the story-Amrita's connection to her radio-fails to evoke any meaningful nostalgia. What should have been a heartfelt narrative device instead comes across as a gimmick.

Overall, Sadabahar is a missed opportunity. It tries to be profound but ends up shallow, uninspired, and frustratingly pretentious. Jaya Bachchan's performance is far from her best, and the film as a whole fails to justify its existence. Skip this one-you won't miss anything.

Mr. Ahire's exceptional direction and storytelling captivated me, making this movie an absolute delight to watch. The narrative flows beautifully, drawing you into its world with every scene. The acting is outstanding, with each actor delivering a heartfelt performance that brings depth and authenticity to the characters. The story is both engaging and emotional, keeping you invested from start to finish. The film's heart touching melodic ending adds a perfect touch, leaving a lasting impression. It's a rare combination of brilliant direction, compelling storytelling, and powerful performances. Truly a cinematic gem that stays with you long after the credits roll.

In today's fast faced world and specially when high voltage drama rules the heart & brain of viewers who are glued to Netflix, Prime, PVRs...this slow paced movie takes you closer to life with a a believable plot & characters - Watched this as part of the opening movie of "Weekly Sunday Premiere" on DD National & got captivated with it real story telling. If you have old parents or if you are attached to old things & ideas, you will appreciate this movie. It may not be a "technical masterpiece' but it is surely an "emotional masterpiece" specially the heartwarming ending !! This also available on #Waves #WavesOTT as well 👏 #DDNational #Doordarshan #Sadabahar #JayaBhaduri #RajatKapoor #RajendraGupta.

Jaya Bahuduri's name made me see this movie. Liked this movie for its:

• Story (though slow, but very close to reality)
• Acting, all across was excellent including the maid

servant's role

• Locales seem to be too REAL

If there was an English name for this movie, then it would have been 'Nostalgia'. Wonder what was the reason to give the name 'Sadabahar' to this movie, other than the Sadabahar songs we heard in that old radio. This film does not fall under peculiar Bollywood movie genre and wonder if such movies ever make money or at least break even. Such movies are made for passion, so kudos to the Producers. Imagine the radio repairer is placing an order for tea with a whistle, looks so authentic in such environment.

We are left with words 'Replace not repair' that hang over our mind. Recommended for one time watch.

A heart-wrenching tale of loneliness, love, and the transformative power of human connection. The film tells the story of an elderly widow, played by Jaya Bachchan, who finds solace in old classic Hindi songs that transport her to a bygone era. Her life is marked by a strained relationship with her son. Her only companion is a radio gifted by her father on her wedding day, which suddenly stops working, plunging her into an even deeper sense of despair.

The arrival of a mechanic brings a glimmer of hope into her life. Their conversations are beautifully interspersed with poignant shaayaris (I have mentioned few in the end of this review). These shaayaris elevate the narrative to a lyrical and contemplative plane.

The film's narrative is reminiscent of O. Henry's classic tales. While there is a minor discrepancy in the dubbing at 1-2 places, Jaya Bachchan delivers a tour-de-force performance, bringing depth, nuance and vulnerability to her character. Her co-stars match her intensity, bringing a sense of tenderness and compassion to their interactions.

The film's climax is heartbreaking and tear-jerking. It's a stark reminder of how time is sliding away and how old age brings not only illnesses and ongoing struggles but also loneliness. As one grows old, they often find themselves seeking companionship in inanimate objects, like the radio and clock as often they become substitutes for human connection.

Movie raises questions about do we as a matter of fact, often invite our own loneliness by surrounding ourselves with the familiar comforts of our past rather than embracing the present.

Loved it. A great watch... A powerful reminder that loneliness has no address..

"Kuch teri mashrufiyan, kuch meri mazburiyan Kuch toh zindagi ne Karli nadaniyaan

Kisi ke hisse ki sham na unse guzari na Ham se Bas zibdagi guzar gayi Radio yea I ki Guzare hue waqt main lot Jane ki Time Machine

Mere afsano ka Teri zuban pe zikra hain Kuch toh Tera sabra hain, kuch meri manmaniyan

Kis raftar se guzara hainwaqt, saari umar udaa le Gaya."