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Shikara Movie Review: Vidhu Vinod Chopra directorial on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits will stay with you
Shikara Movie Review: Shikara is a poignant historical-romantic drama and it is based on the exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from Kashmir. Read on for the full review.
Movie Name: Shikara
Shikara Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Shikara Cast: Aadil Khan and Sadia
Shikara Stars: 3.5/5
Vidhu Vinod Chopra directorial Shikara, which is a tribute to his family, is inspired by the Kashmiri Pandits' exodus that took place in the 90s. For the unversed, 19 January 1990 saw the biggest forced migration in independent India and more 4,00,000 Kashmiri Pandits had to leave their homes in Kashmir Valley and became refugees in their own country.
When I watched the trailer, I first thought that makers won't focus much on the love story as it is quite difficult to balance out the romantic angle and morbid subject. But, the makers did a great job by balancing it without over or underdoing it. Also, the grim realities were tenderly depicted without blaming any community.
Coming to the plotline, the movie follows the lives of Shiv Dhar and his wife Shanti Dhar. The couple and many other Kashmiri Pandits had to leave their homes and bore the brunt of the ethnic cleansing which took place in Kashmir. The movie opens with Shiv writing a letter to USA's president and how they have been waiting to return to their home in valleys. Later, the flashback story showcases how Kashmiri Hindus and Muslims lived in harmony until disturbed by the insurgency which was the result of both religious and political uproar. Shiv and Shanti's perfect life turns upside down and they fall prey to a communal vengeance.
They get in a deep dilemma when they realize that they have no choice but to migrate to a new area as militants started to attack Hindus. Shiv and Shanti start living in the refugee quarters far from their home. They, fortunately, get a chance to visit their home in Kashmir, however, they realize that it is no more their 'home' and get shocked to see the strife-ravaged Kashmir.
Speaking writing and storyline, the well-woven and engrossing narrative will surely keep you hooked until the end. And they are enhanced by the terrific performances by the debutants Sadia and Aadil Khan. They both stand out in the movie with their convincing performances.
Coming to direction, Vidhu impresses with his inimitable style. Also, the music, dialogues, and cinematography are deftly done. Talking about the setbacks, the only time the movie faltered was with the editing the second half of the movie. All in all, this a beautiful love story's translation to the screen is almost flawless and I think it deserves a watch.
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