Everyone knows that terrorism is a complex and dangerous labyrinth
of irrational minds. However, can it even be a power-house that involves an
unholy nexus between so called well-meaning, socially respected civilised
officials, bureaucrats and extremists? Scholars and experts on the subject do
not deny the existence of such a possibility. A terrorist will never be able to
achieve his ‘lofty’ aims unless he has a clue as to how the government
machinery functions from inside.
The theme of the film Kahaani
is just that. It brings forth a very complex issue of extremists making the
best use of government research through the help of some insiders to carry out
their terror acts. While watching the film one cannot but wonder if such could be
the case in reality, the film, however, looks a convincing fiction. The nexus between the underworld and
politicians and government officials has long been established.
Film Director: Sujay Ghosh
Film Clip
Apart from this intriguing issue, what makes the film
special is the character Vidya Bagchi played by Vidya Balan. She seems to be in
an eternal search for her lost husband. While she finds answers to the
mysterious disappearance of her husband, her search for a state of reason in a
world ravaged by mindless violence and useless warfare would never end.
Vidya Balan has absolutely personalised the role of a
searching spouse. As Inspector Rana (Parambrata Chatterjee) puts it at the end,
Vidya Bagchi never existed; she is just an illusion. Indeed Vidya epitomises
the illusory character through her seamless expressions.
A good film must stimulate questions rather than giving ready-made answers. Kahaani indeed
raises very many compelling questions and leaves the audience into deep thought
for long.
- Melwyn Pinto SJ
