Aandhi: A cinematic storm that echoed Indira's era
Photo: IMDb
advertisement
Film-maker Gulzar saw in Indira's unique persona and soaring popularity an opportunity to craft a political satire. The outcome was 'Aandhi', a film that suffered the highs and lows of the character that inspired it.Gulzar has said many times the film was not based on Indira Gandhi's life. Only the lead character, Aarti Devi, was inspired by her, and Tarkeshwari Sinha, a popular Parliamentarian from Patna. But at the time of 'Aandhi's' release, the film was marketed as an Indira Gandhi biopic, with posters exhorting the audience to come and watch 'their PM on the screen.'The strategy, initially successful, backfired when Mrs Gandhi's opponents started screening some of the scenes in 'Aandhi' to tarnish her image during elections for the Gujarat assembly, fought in the heat of the Navnirman Andolan.Acting on a complaint filed by the Congress, the Election Commission banned 'Aandhi', 24 weeks after its initial release. Soon after, on June 26, 1975, Indira Gandhi's firm voice crackled through All India Radio, announcing the imposition of the Emergency. The film, thus, was indelibly linked with Mrs Gandhi, and the excesses of the Emergency that coincided with the film.THE PLOT'Aandhi's' narrative unfolds with a delicate balance of personal drama and political intrigue, centred on Aarti Devi (Suchitra Sen), a charismatic yet embattled politician whose chance reunion with her estranged husband, JK (Sanjeev Kumar), forces her to confront the sacrifices her ambition has demanded.
Sanjeev Kumar and Suchitra Sen in a still from 'Aandhi'. (Photo: Facebook/FilmHistoryPic)
While Aarti navigates the deluge of emotions from the past, an election unfolds, with all its trickery and subterfuge. Unable to match her aura and sharp moves, the opposition attacks Aarti's personal life.The tongues, like they always do, begin to wag with rumours, snide remarks and salacious gossip. But, with a bold move at the end, Aarti stuns her critics, stealing the show, literally, from their own stage.Some narrative similarities with Indira Gandhi are hard to miss. Her father, India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru, wasn't happy with her marriage to Feroze Gandhi, a Parsi. The marriage was solemnised with Vedic rituals, at Nehru's insistence.Feroze Gandhi, a dynamic politician and journalist, maintained an independent identity. Elected to the Lok Sabha from Rae Bareli in 1952 and 1957, he often sparred with the government. In 1958, he famously uncovered the LIC scandal, which implicated the government.advertisementHis relationship with Indira was complex, marked by periods of strain. Burdened with contradictions, the alliance didn't last long. Indira Gandhi soon shifted to her father's home with her sons Rajiv and Sanjay.In 'Aandhi', Aarti's complex marriage with JK, who has an independent spirit, mirrors the Indira-Feroze dynamics. But, unlike Feroze Gandhi's tragic end - he died young after a heart attack - the film ends on a happy note.In another scene, Aarti is pelted with stones. This happens after she delivers a speech and is confronted by an angry crowd. A journalist then asks her if violence is a part of politics, to which she replies that it is a part of bad politics.The incident has an uncanny similarity with a political rally where a stone hit Indira Gandhi's nose, requiring minor surgery.
Photo: IMDb
THE GOOD, BAD AND UGLYThe film's brilliance lies in Gulzar's ability to craft a story that is both intimate and universal, exploring the toll of public life on personal relationships. Sen's portrayal of Aarti is magnetic. She channels the poise and steely resolve of a leader while revealing the quiet loneliness beneath her polished exterior.advertisementKumar, as JK, matches her with a performance that is understated yet deeply affecting, his character's stoic demeanour masking years of unresolved pain.The film's non-linear storytelling, a Gulzar trademark, weaves past and present seamlessly, showing how Aarti's rise in politics strained her marriage and distanced her from her daughter. This personal conflict is juxtaposed with her public persona, where she navigates a world of sycophants, rivals, and moral compromises.'Aandhi' doesn't shy away from showing the gritty realities of politics - bribery, manipulation, and public scrutiny - but it does so with a poetic restraint that avoids sensationalism.RD Burman's music, paired with Gulzar's evocative lyrics, is the film's emotional heartbeat. Songs like 'Tere Bina Zindagi Se' and 'Is Mod Se Jaate Hain' are not mere interludes but narrative pillars, amplifying the themes of longing and sacrifice.The chemistry between Sen and Kumar is most palpable in these musical moments, where their unspoken emotions speak louder than words. The supporting cast - Om Prakash, AK Hangal, and Om Shivpuri - adds depth, portraying the loyalists and sceptics who orbit Aarti's world.advertisementThe problem with the film is its climax. It starts with a problem that looks like a pointless 'Aandhi', a storm in a teacup, and ends with a dramatic solution. The subplot feels forced, relying on exaggerated gossip to dramatise Aarti's marriage, which clashes with the film's nuanced tone.THE VERDICTDespite this flaw, the film's depiction of a strong, flawed female leader was groundbreaking for its time, challenging stereotypes in a male-dominated industry. The human story at its core - a love tested by ambition and time - makes 'Aandhi' timeless. The formula has been copied many times, almost verbatim in later films like 'Pyar Jhukta Nahin', underlining its evergreen appeal.Indira Gandhi lost the 1977 election. When 'Aandhi' was re-released by the Moraraji Desai government, the audiences embraced its nuanced take on power and vulnerability. The film's success was a reminder that Indira Gandhi may have been defeated, but she wasn't forgotten. Like 'Aandhi', Indira Gandhi also got a second chance at redemption.'Aandhi' remains a must-watch for its bold storytelling, unforgettable performances, and its unflinching look at the personal costs of political life. It's a reminder that behind every public figure lies a private struggle, and that art, even when banned, has the power to endure and provoke. Watch it to witness a masterclass in filmmaking, music composition, and to reflect on the timeless truth: kuch toh log kahenge, but the heart knows its own story.P.S.: In 'Aandhi', Suchitra Sen is styled after Indira Gandhi. She wears crisp sarees, and has her trademark streak of grey. Habib Ahmed, the famous stylist, once revealed Indira's hair was 99 per cent grey.So, except that grey streak, the rest had to be dyed black. 'She had it done first in France, and then I took over,' Habib revealed, adding that he saw the PM once or twice a week to help her maintain her iconic look.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
19 minutes ago
- Time of India
"Basanti became my second name in real life": Hema Malini on 'Sholay' completing 50 years
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) "Basanti became my second name in real life": Hema Malini on 'Sholay' completing 50 years (Picture Courtesy: Facebook) "Basanti became my second name in real life": Hema Malini on 'Sholay' completing 50 years (Picture Courtesy: Facebook) 1 2 Bollywood actress Hema Malini has expressed gratitude to the audience as Ramesh Sippy 's iconic film 'Sholay' completed 50 years of its release. On Friday, the actress, fondly remembered as 'Basanti' from the film, shared a video on Instagram, writing, "Sabhi ko Basanti ka Ram Ram. "Sholay" has completed 50years. Here are my wishes for the team and gratitude to the audience and my fans for all their blessings and unconditional love. " I thank the audience for giving this film In the video, Hema said, "Namaste, Basanti here. The iconic Hindi film Sholay has completed 50 years of its run in different parts of the world. There are very few Indian films which have equalled or surpassed this record. I have been fortunate to contribute to the stupendous success of the film in a pivotal role as Basanti. In fact, the role had such an impact on the viewing public that Basanti became my second name in real life. I congratulate all my co-artists, Vero, Jayay, Radha, Thakur, Gabbarsingh and many others. And the production team, including the director Ramish Sipriji, Salim Saheb, Javed Saheb, Late RD Burmanji and the many members of the technical team. Sholay would be incomplete without each team members participation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The film continues to create history even after five decades. I thank the audience for giving this film so much love. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and nostalgia for being remembered as Basanti even today. Today, the 15th of August 2025, marks its 50th year, and I am happy standing at the crossroads of the historical event in which I have played a substantial part. I celebrate this event with the Hindi film world and my fans. 'Chal Dhano' gets it for the next 50 years." Recently, the Film Heritage Foundation announced that the restored version of Sholay will have its North American premiere at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 6. The gala screening will take place at the 1,800-seater Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto. The Film Heritage Foundation took to their Instagram account to make the announcement along with a caption that read, "Indian cinematic epic 'Sholay' (1975), directed by Ramesh Sippy, celebrates 50 years with the North American Premiere of the restored version at the 50th edition of the TIFF Toronto International Film Festival! This special screening will take place on September 6, 2025, at a gala event at the 1800-seater Roy Thomson Hall, befitting the legendary status of the film. " 'Sholay' is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. It starred legendary actors such as Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan and Amjad Khan, among others. Released on August 15, 1975, 'Sholay' turned into a cult favourite in Indian cinema , owing to its powerful story, memorable characters, iconic dialogues, and the evergreen songs like 'Yeh Dosti', 'Mehbooba Mehbooba', 'Haa Jab Tak Hai Jaan', 'Holi Ke Din' and others. The film's story focuses on the fictitious Ramgarh village, where retired police chief Thakur Baldev Singh (Sanjeev Kumar) plans to defeat the notorious bandit, Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan), with the help of Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra). Upon arriving in the village, the duo realises the menace of Gabbar Singh and double their efforts to help Thakur. Jaya Bachchan and Hema Malini are seen playing Jai and Veeru's love interests as Basanti and Radha, respectively. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Time of India
39 minutes ago
- Time of India
Rahul, Kharge skip Red Fort event, draw BJP fire
NEW DELHI: Absence of and , leaders of opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, respectively, from the Independence Day event at Red Fort on Friday drew a sharp reaction from BJP which alleged that the main opposition party, Congress, has hit a "new low" with its top functionaries "insulting" the country by "boycotting" the event. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Rahul had attended the programme last year but was absent this time. Kharge was absent last year as well. The Congress leadership steered clear of making a statement on the issue but sources said party heads have chosen to distance themselves from such events as they feel the governing dispensation discriminates against opposition members in terms of seating arrangements and protocol. "Even those holding constitutional positions are not shown due respect - instead of being seated in the front row, they are placed in the third row," a source said. BJP sources refuted the charge as a "lame alibi". "We are following the same protocol that they had put in place," a source said. "From opposing a party to insulting the nation - every time you think Congress can't fall further, they hit a new low," BJP said. "Only a handful of chairs were empty at Red Fort, and no points for guessing who missed the event again," BJP said, posting a media report on X about Rahul and Kharge skipping the official event. The stalemate over seats and protocol is not new and has seen BJP and Congress engage in a war of words with BJP members alleging in the past that during UPA era, its members were not given seats in VIP areas.
Hans India
41 minutes ago
- Hans India
Need for awareness of Constitution stressed
Ongole: The speakers at the programme, 'Indian Constitution- Minimum Awareness' and prize distribution for the elocution competition held in Ongole on Saturday, emphasised that the Indian constitution guarantees freedom, equality, and empowerment, but the people with no awareness of it are losing them one by one. Prakasam Zilla Abhivriddhi Vedika president and Samyukt Kisan Morcha district convener Chunduri Rangarao presided over the meeting that was held by the Prakasam Zilla Abhivriddhi Vedika, Organisation for Protection of Democratic Rights, Democratic Rights Protection Forum, and other public fronts, and in which former Chief Information Commissioner Madabhushi Sridhar Acharyulu, former Agriculture Minister and state convener for Samyukt Kisan Morcha Vadde Sobhanadriswara Rao participated as the chief guests. Addressing the gathering, Sridhar Acharyulu expressed concern that many Indians still lack basic constitutional knowledge and are confused over the celebrations of Independence Day and Republic Day. He noted that Dr BR Ambedkar enshrined equal rights, freedom, and liberty for all citizens in the Constitution, but ruling parties make amendments according to their preferences. He criticised the attempt of the Election Commission to delete 65 lakh votes in Bihar and appreciated the Supreme Court intervention. He questioned the fate of democracy in the State when the locals are forced not to use their right to vote. He warned the youth to keep track of their vote and exercise their right to elect only people with no criminal background. He highlighted economic inequality, stating that while a few corporate forces accumulate wealth worth lakhs of crores, the majority's economic situation deteriorates significantly. Former Agriculture Minister Sobhanadriswara Rao emphasised that constitutional awareness helps citizens understand both their rights and duties. He criticised rulers for trampling the constitution while allowing corporate forces to exploit national resources. He noted that 48 percent of national wealth is concentrated among 21 corporate entities. Rangarao observed that the makers of the constitution wanted everyone in the country to prosper with development, education, and opportunities, but this was not achieved even after 79 years of Independence. He said that though people are educated now, they do not have the minimum understanding of their constitutional rights and duties. That is why, he opined, the rulers are infringing on the rights of the public. Other speakers, Retired Degree College principal Sanku Manorama, Senior Advocate Panguluri Govindaiah, OPDR president Chavali Sudhakar, Chunchu Seshaiah, and others observed that the constitution is in crisis now. They said that the rulers are promoting religious patriotism while endangering secularism in the country. They said that the people claiming themselves as public servants were torturing the public, and are even pressuring the judges. They said that though the constitution is not comprehensive, the fundamental rights are still able to protect the public. The seminar concluded with the prize distribution for the winners of the elocution competition, which was held from July 20. Saisri from Addanki GGH School won first prize, Farhan from Markapur ZPHS secured second place, and M Nandini from Etamukkala ZPHS received third prize, along with several consolation prizes from others.
