GODMOTHER 1999
BY
VINAY SHUKLA
Shabana Azmi is definitely a powerhouse,and has delivered a
hard-hitting performance in this film.She was awarded the National Award for
the Best Actress for her role of Santokhben Jadeja,the notorious Godmother of
Porbandar of the 80s and 90s.
Shabana’s derives her authenticity from her inherent
Indianness. She is at home as a Rajasthani,Gujarati,Bihari,Banarasi ,Marathi or
even Kannada woman-be it rural ,or urban. This has fetched her 5 National
Awards and immense respect of her peers.
In Godmother,she is in top form,as a wife who sees her
husband transform from being a simple villager into a local don,and when she is
killed,she herself steps into his shoes. The Godmother then portrays a vulnerable
mother as her wayward son,Sharman Joshi,creates trouble for himself and her
mother.
Sharman Joshi has managed to be as prickly as possible,as
the role demanded.MILIND GUNAJEE is an active volcano,and here his emissions
are as volatile as possible.The man had charisma,wonder why he cud not do much
better in his career,especially in Hindi films.
Nirmal Pandey is also in a key role,and plays his part
well.Govind Namdev is at his usual villainy.It suits him so well.Wonder if the
man has ever done a positive turn in his acting career.
The screenplay of the film could have been a tad better,but
given the scope of the film,its doable.Godmother was awarded the National Award
for Best Hindi Film.Shabana’s lady don avatar is a highlight of his career.
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