Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. A Film Review.

Characters. The essence of nostalgia. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aise is a revelation. Sudhir Mishra tells us a wonderful story of three characters, Sidharth (Kay Kay), Geeta (Chitrangada Singh) and Vikram (Shiny Ahuja). The film stands out with its opening sequence, with the three characters reading letters to each other, to an aesthetically created ambience of a politically charged India in early 1970’s. The story traces the path of these characters over a decade, through the turbulence of India’s emergency in the late 70’s.

Sidharth, son of an influential judge, has seeds of a rebel, and sets out to change the world by joining the Naxal movement in Bihar. So much so, he forgoes his love for Geeta for his cause of bringing about a change. Geeta marries an IAS officer, seeking stability and her repressed love for Sidharth. Vikram, sassy, smart, climbs the political ladder and reaches the top rung of money and power but finds himself helpless in his feelings for Geeta. Then their paths cross. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aise gives us three evolving characters. They grow on us. We feel for Sidharth, we cry for Geeta and we laugh with Vikram. The characters are so well etched; you want them to last forever. Mishra interlaces their lives with superb craftsmanship.

Mature Acting

Kay Kay gives in a wonderful performance, needing no more than body language to emote his burning desire to bring about a revolution. Chitrangada Singh, dubbed by many as the next Smita Patil, is simply terrific. I can’t recall a stronger performance by a female lead in years. Backed by a wonderfully written character, she pulls off her debut with the ascendance of a veteran. Shiny Ahuja makes a lasting impression. You feel the most for his character. You root for him. Despite having gray connotations, we want him to succeed.

The cinematography, a three-decade-old setting, mesmerizing music and some wonderful supporting performances make Hazaaron Khwaishein Aise memorable. It plays on such a complex level, you end up being overwhelmed. A highlight of Indian cinema. A must see.

End Credits

Genre: Drama, Action, Political

Released: 2005

Production: Pritish Nandy Communications

Director: Sudhir Mishra

Music Director: Shantanu Moitra

Stars: Kay Kay Menon, Chitrangada Singh, Roshan (Shiny) Ahuja