Deewar (1975)
Deewar (1975), directed by Yash Chopra and written by Salim-Javed, is a landmark Hindi film that explores themes of family, morality, and socio-economic disparities, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing India. Here's an elaboration of its story:
The film begins in a small town where Anand Verma (Satyen Kappu), a dedicated union leader, fights for the rights of laborers. However, he is betrayed by his employers and forced to sign a document that causes significant harm to the workers. This act brands him a traitor, and he is ostracized by society. Unable to bear the shame, Anand abandons his family, leaving his wife, Sumitra Devi (Nirupa Roy), and two young sons, Vijay (played as an adult by Amitabh Bachchan) and Ravi (played as an adult by Shashi Kapoor), to fend for themselves.
The family moves to Mumbai and begins a life of struggle. Vijay, the elder son, shoulders the responsibility of the family from a young age. He works as a shoeshine boy and faces constant humiliation and hardship. This tough childhood molds Vijay into a resilient and determined man, but it also leaves him deeply scarred. Ravi, on the other hand, grows up with a more optimistic outlook, nurtured by his mother's love and values.
As adults, the brothers take starkly different paths. Vijay, hardened by his experiences, becomes involved in the underworld and rises to power as a smuggler. He justifies his actions as a means to provide his family with a better life and to escape the poverty that defined his childhood. On the other hand, Ravi, inspired by his mother's unwavering morals, joins the police force and vows to uphold justice.
The turning point comes when Ravi is assigned the task of apprehending Vijay. The brothers find themselves on opposite sides of the law, leading to intense emotional and moral conflicts. Sumitra Devi is torn between her two sons: one who represents righteousness and law, and the other who has sacrificed his morality for the family’s survival.
The film builds to a dramatic climax as Ravi relentlessly pursues Vijay. In their final confrontation, Vijay acknowledges his crimes and the choices that led him there but refuses to surrender. Their confrontation ends tragically, with Ravi shooting Vijay, who dies in his mother’s arms at a temple, symbolizing his ultimate redemption.
Key Themes and Legacy:
.Socio-Economic Divide: Deewar delves into how systemic inequalities and societal injustices shape individuals differently.
.Brotherhood and Morality: The clash between Vijay and Ravi reflects a larger debate about morality, loyalty, and survival.
.The Angry Young Man: Vijay, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan, became the quintessential "angry young man," symbolizing the frustrations of a generation.
Iconic Dialogues: Lines like "Mere paas maa hai" (I have my mother) and "Aaj khush toh bahut hoge tum" (You must be very happy today) became cultural phenomena.
Deewar remains a timeless classic for its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes. It redefined Hindi cinema, leaving an indelible mark on Indian pop culture.
Sanjay Pattnayak
Sundargarh
