Swarg

I must have watched Swarg a hundred time without getting bored. Rajesh Khannas performance as usual fantastic, however I think Govinda stole the show for me. The scene where Govinda is accused of robbery and told to leave, has left an everlasting memory which I can't forget. And I haven't seen the film since 1993. I don't know, it maybe just me but I had a tear in my eye. Govinda has since been one of my favourite actors; however, his recent films have not done justice to his acting ability.

The overall story will not be remembered as a classic as this type of stories have been done a lot of times before, nevertheless I'd still watch it for Govinda's and Rejesh Khanna's performances.

6/10

Swarg is very good movie and is a remake of a Pakistani movie named Sahib Jee. The actors have done exceptional job especially Rajesh Khanna and Govinda. Dialogues are fantastic and will be memorable for long long time, though they are heavily inspired and very close to the original. The only thing I dislike about the movie(most Bollywood movies actually) was the annoying and unnecessary songs

Swarg was director David Dhawan's first hit. It was reported that initially Rajesh Khanna was hesitant to wear a wig for the role but later agreed.

It is the usual tale of a family getting divided & getting united by the servant. It is surprising that such a wealthy businessman becomes bankrupt when his factory is consigned to flames. Did he not insure the firm? However, logic in commercial cinema is usually not considered.

The film is a clean family entertainer with tear jerking scenes which appealed to the family audiences, particularly ladies. Madhavi & Juhi Chawla look beautiful & have done well.

Rajesh Khanna gives a matured performance which is only expected from an actor of his stature. But the scene stealer is Givinda who has given a memorable performance be it in comedy timing, dancing or melodrama.

Rajesh Khanna goes practically missing in the 2nd half, surfacing only towards the climax.

The songs are good, not great & other production values are OK.

The film was a hit mainly because it drew in the family audiences to the theatres.

Khanna, in one of his later roles, delivers a masterclass in restrained anguish, his eyes conveying volumes where dialogue falters. Govinda, pre-celebrity as the 90s' "Hero No. 1," showcases surprising nuance, balancing his trademark humor with tender vulnerability. Their dynamic evolves organically, from wary tension to paternal affection, avoiding clichéd sentimentality. Juhi Chawla, though underutilized, radiates warmth, her character serving as the moral compass bridging two disparate worlds.

Dhawan's direction here is uncharacteristically somber, favoring muted visuals and deliberate pacing that mirror the protagonist's internal stagnation. The film's aesthetic-shadowy mansions contrasted with vibrant street scenes-reflects the clash between privilege and authenticity. Lahiri's soundtrack, particularly the soulful "Kaate Nahi Kat Te", transcends era-specific synth beats, becoming a narrative device that underscores pivotal emotional shifts.

I watched this movie multiple times in the past but watched this movie on 12th March 2022 at Amazon Prime Video with english subtitles. Tthe whole cast acted amazingly in this movie. The dialogues were very well written. What touched me is the background score! The entire background score was in Raag Shivaranjani. It was just so touching ! Ae Mere Dost Laut Ke Aaja was in this raag and it was melodiously sung by Mohd Aziz.

I don't mind watching this movie another million times as the background score and the story was superb!