info-15987

Chai Pani Etc. (2004)

Pertinent, funny, original and obviously provocative to some.

Pertinent, funny, original and obviously provocative to some people. How many Indian films talk about corruption, censorship and their link with poverty - a central reality of Indian life - in a funny yet subtle manner? Neither does it pontificate about its weighty subject, like a typical holier than thou arty fare matter, nor does it resolve real life issues in the typical magical "Bollywood ishtyle". Irony, wit and intelligent humour lace this bitter sweat coming of age story about the loss of innocence. Additional highlights are the dynamic soulful soundtrack and elegant camera work that captures the timeless beauty of Jaisalmer and the reality of bureaucratic Lutyens' Delhi. Despite its subtle approach, Manu Rewal's award winning satire, wasn't given a censor certificate for seven months by the authorities and was denied the possibility of competing for the national film award on absurd grounds.