Jagte Raho

The film "Jaagte Raho" starts with Raj Kapoor, a poor person looking to quench his thirst. Thirsty, he enters an apartment building where he is branded as a thief and is constantly on the run. Ironically, where ever he hides, he meets other so called "reputable" citizens who all are equal to thieves. The film captures the corruption rampant in the society and rips apart the moral fabric that shields the upper echelons of society. The protagonist isn't a criminal, but he is treated like one, which is quite comparable to the real world. The film exposes a range of vices while at the same time remaining funny. The theme which the film showcases could have happened anywhere. The protagonist is the generic poor man to whom society has bestowed little. Raj Kapoor gave a fine performance as the peasant, even though he hardly has a few dialogues in the film, but his face speaks for itself. The film is brilliantly done. The supporting cast of Motilal and Pradeep are also good. The film is both a comedy and a tragedy. It makes you laugh and then makes you cry at the pitiable state of society.