Raakh

"Raakh" is a good attempt by director Piyush Rajnikant Pandya. Set in the 1950s, tells the story of Raami Baai, a brave woman who wants to perform the last rites (Agni Daah) for her loved ones-something women were not allowed to do in those days.

The film follows Raami from her childhood to her old age, showing how she stands up against age-old traditions and fights for her right with courage and determination.

The acting is natural and emotional. Karishma Khoja does a great job as the older Raami, and Pinky Jaiswal is impressive as the younger version. The film's music, costumes, and village setting give it a very authentic feel.

Some parts of the film are a bit slow, and the story becomes predictable at times. But overall, it's a film with a big heart and a strong message.

If you enjoy serious, meaningful stories that talk about social issues, Raakh is definitely worth watching.

Final Rating: 6/10 A good attempt with strong performances and message.

A bold step for Gujarati cinema. This 2022 film brings something very different - a dark and intense story.

The direction by Piyush Pandya is good, and the screenplay sustains really well up to the interval. Little slow in second half. The atmosphere is gritty, with good cinematography and lovely background score by Manish Bhanushali, that match the mood perfectly.

All the actors delivers a satisfactory performance and does a good job, especially in emotional scenes.

What really stands out is how the movie avoids typical melodrama and instead focuses on storytelling. The editing is sharp, and the film doesn't feel stretched. The climax is powerful and stays with you after the film ends.

However, this movie is not for everyone. It's slow in some parts and may be too intense or dark for viewers expecting a light Gujarati film. But if you like serious dramas, this is worth a watch.

Overall, "Raakh" is a refreshing change in Gujarati cinema - serious, well-made, and gripping. It proves that regional films can also explore unique themes with style.

A balance between niche cinema and commercial cinema. Great work by the director Piyush Rajnikant Pandya, kudos to his vision and the way he handled the sensible subject. Loved all the characters, specially all three shades of the protagonist lady Rami Bai. Climax was very emotional and brought tears. Screenplay and makeup could have been better. Loved the music and background score. Now a days taste of gujarati audience is changing a lot and they are loving and seeking unique concepts. Great attempt by the makers of this film. I wish gujarati cinema should go for such different and brave subjects more.

What really stands out is how the movie avoids typical melodrama and instead focuses on storytelling. The editing is good, and the film doesn't feel stretched. The climax is powerful and stays with you after the film ends. All actors delivers a good performance.

However, this movie is not for everyone. Feels slow in second half. Also too intense or dark for viewers expecting a light Gujarati film. But if you like niche and some serious dramas, this is worth a watch. Raakh is a refreshing change in Gujarati cinema, serious, well-made, and gripping. It proves that regional films can also explore a unique themes with style.