Beyond Cinema with Nihita

Director: Shoojit Sircar Writer: Juhi Chaturvedi Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone & Irrfan Khan Cinematography: Kamaljeet Negi Music: Anupam Roy

Writer & Director: Mani Ratnam Cast: Arvind Swamy, Manisha Koirala, Nassar  Cinematography: Rajiv Menon Music: AR Rahman Bombay (1995), directed by Mani Ratnam, is a love story of Shekhar, a Hindu boy, and Shaila, a Muslim girl, who elope to Bombay amidst societal disapproval. Raising twin sons, their world shatters during the 1993 Bombay riots, as communal tensions threaten their family. Arvind Swamy and Manisha Koirala deliver nuanced performances, enhanced by A.R. Rahman's evocative music, notably the iconic "Bombay Theme." A powerful film, Bombay explores love, resilience, and hope amidst the devastating reality of religious violence.

Director: Abhishek Chaubey Screenplay: Sudip Sharma & Abhishek Chaubey Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan & Diljit Dosanjh Cinematography: Rajeev Ravi Music: Amit Trivedi Background Score: Benedict Taylor *Udta Punjab* is a bold 2016 film that tackles the drug crisis in Punjab through the intertwined stories of a rockstar (Shahid Kapoor), an immigrant worker (Alia Bhatt), a cop (Diljit Dosanjh), and a doctor (Kareena Kapoor Khan). The film, directed by Abhishek Chaubey, earned critical acclaim for its raw realism, powerful performances, and unflinching portrayal of addiction and corruption. Despite facing censorship battles, it succeeded commercially and garnered several awards. The film's edgy soundtrack and intense storytelling pushed Bollywood's boundaries, making it a landmark film in socially relevant cinema.

Screenplay & Direction: Pankaj Kapur Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Supriya Pathak, Anupam Kher, Manoj Pahwa  Music: Pritam Lyrics: Irshad Kamil Cinematographer: Binod Pradhan “Mausam” (2011), directed by veteran actor Pankaj Kapur, is a poignant love story that takes its audience on a journey spanning years and continents, touching on love, separation, and longing. Starring Shahid Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor in lead roles, the movie is a romantic drama frozen in time, rooted in old-world charm that stands in stark contrast to the fast-paced love stories we often see today.

Writer & Director: Anurag KashyapBased on: Hussain Zaidi's book “Black Friday: The True Story of the Bombay Bomb Blasts”Cast: Pavan Malhotra, Kay Kay Menon, Aditya Srivastava, Gajraj Rao, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Pratima Kazmi, Imtiaz Ali, Nawazuddin SiddiquiCinematography: Natarajan SubramaniamMusic: Indian Ocean

Director: Madhur Bhandarkar Screenplay: Mohan Azaad Dialogues: Mohan Azaad & Masud Mirza Cast: Tabu, Atul Kulkarni, Ananya Khare Cinematography: Rajeev Ravi Music: Raju Singh Directed by Madhur Bhandarkar in 2001, Chandni Bar is a film that doesn't just tell a story; it makes a statement. Through its raw, gritty portrayal of the lives of bar dancers and the world they inhabit, it forces the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths about society. The performances, particularly by Tabu and Ananya Khare, elevate the film, making it not just a cinematic experience but a deeply emotional journey.

Director: Omung Kumar Producer: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Screenplay: Saiwyn Quadras Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Darshan Kumar & Sunil Thapa Cinematography: Keiko Nakahara Songs: Shashi Suman & Shivamm Pathak Background Score: Rohit Kulkarni Released in 2014, "Mary Kom" is a film that transcends the boundaries of a conventional sports drama. It is a powerful and moving portrayal of a woman's relentless pursuit of her dreams, despite the numerous obstacles in her path. With its compelling story, strong performances, and inspiring message, "Mary Kom" stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the extraordinary achievements of one of India's greatest sports icons.

Director: Kabir Khan Story: Aditya Chopra Screenplay: Sandeep Shrivastava Cast: John Abraham, Katrina Kaif, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Irrfan Khan & Nawazuddin Siddiqui Cinematography: Aseem Mishra Songs: Pritam Background Score: Julius Packiam Producer: Yash Raj Films The 2009 Hindi film New York, directed by Kabir Khan, is a raw, unflinching narrative that delves into the traumatic aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The film explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the far-reaching consequences of terrorism. It is a balanced yet emotionally charged portrayal of how lives are irrevocably altered by global events, especially for those who find themselves wrongfully accused due to their ethnicity or religion.

Writer & Director: Prakash Jha Screenplay: Prakash Jha & Anjum Rajabali Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Nana Patekar, Manoj Bajpayee, Arjun Rampal, Katrina Kaif, Naseeruddin Shah, Chetan Pandit, Sarah Thompson & Shruti Seth Cinematography: Sachin K Krishn Background Score: Wayne Sharpe Raajneeti (2010), directed by Prakash Jha, is a compelling political thriller that delves into the complexities of Indian politics, drawing inspiration from the Mahabharata. The film features an ensemble cast with standout performances by Ranbir Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Katrina Kaif, Nana Patekar, and Manoj Bajpayee. Jha's direction skillfully captures the power struggles, ambitions, and moral dilemmas within a political family. The screenplay, impactful dialogues, and strong social commentary on gender roles and dynastic politics make Raajneeti a significant film that offers a realistic and thought-provoking portrayal of the political landscape.

Director & Producer: Yash Chopra Story & Screenplay: Honey Irani Dialogues: Rahi Masoon Raza Cast: Sridevi, Anil Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman & Anupam Kher Cinematography: Manmohan Singh Music: Shiv- Hari Yash Chopra's 1991 film 'Lamhe' is a bold and timeless love saga that was initially controversial but has since gained cult status. It tells the story of Viren (Anil Kapoor), who falls in love with Pallavi (Sridevi), and later with her daughter Pooja (also played by Sridevi). Sridevi's dual role and Anil Kapoor's nuanced performance are standout elements. The film features beautiful cinematography of Rajasthan and London, and a memorable soundtrack by Shiv-Hari. Despite its initial mixed reception in India, 'Lamhe' is now celebrated for its groundbreaking narrative, emotional depth, and Yash Chopra's masterful direction.

Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Screenplay: Vishal Bhardwaj, Robin Bhatt, Abhishek Chaubey Based on “Othello” by William Shakespeare Cast: Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Konkana Sen Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah, Deepak Dobriyal, Bipasha Basu Cinematography: Tassaduq Hussain Dialogues, Music & Background Score: Vishal Bhardwaj Lyrics: Gulzar "Omkara," a 2006 crime drama directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, is an adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello," set in rural Uttar Pradesh. The film features a stellar ensemble cast and stands out for its authentic portrayal of rustic life, powerful performances, and a gripping storyline. The film's music, especially the song "Bidi Jalaile," and its numerous awards and accolades cement its legacy in Hindi cinema.

Dor (2006) Director: Sriram Raghavan Writer: Sriram Raghavan & Pooja Ladha Surti Producer: Ram Gopal Varma Cast: Urmila Matondkar, Saif Ali Khan, Seema Biswas, Aditya Srivastava, Pratima Kazmi Cinematography: C.K. Muraleedharan Music & Background Score: Amar Mohile "Ek Hasina Thi" is a 2004 Hindi neo-noir thriller directed by Sriram Raghavan, starring Urmila Matondkar and Saif Ali Khan. The film follows Sarika, a simple woman whose life is shattered when she falls in love with the charming but deceitful Karan. Wrongly imprisoned due to his machinations, Sarika endures brutal prison conditions and transforms into a vengeful force. The film is noted for its gripping screenplay, strong performances, especially Matondkar's and Khan's, and its realistic depiction of betrayal, prison life, and the pursuit of justice.

Dor (2006) Screenplay & Direction: Nagesh Kukunoor Based on the Malayalam film “Perumazhakkalam” by Kamal Cast: Ayesha Takia, Gul Panag, Shreyas Talpade, Girish Karnad, Uttara Baokar & Prateeksha Lonkar Music & Background Score: Salim- Sulaiman In a cinematic landscape dominated by commercial blockbusters, the 2006 Hindi movie "Dor" stands out as a beacon of nuanced storytelling and emotional depth. Nagesh Kukunoor's masterful direction, combined with stellar performances by Ayesha Takia, Gul Panag, and Shreyas Talpade, makes "Dor" a film that is both timeless and poignant. It is a film that deserves to be revisited and celebrated for its artistic merit and the powerful messages it conveys.

Screenplay & Direction: Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi Based on novel “Pinjar” by Amrita Pritam Cast: Urmila Matondkar, Manoj Bajpayee, Sanjay Suri, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Isha Koppikar, Sandali Sinha, Lillete Dubey, Kulbhushan Kharbanda & Farida Jalal Cinematography: Santosh Thundiyil Music: Uttam Singh Lyrics: Gulzar Released in 2003, "Pinjar" is a poignant period drama that brings to life Amrita Pritam's classic novel of the same name. Directed by Dr. Chandra Prakash Dwivedi, the film is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Partition of India in 1947. Despite its compelling narrative and powerful performances, "Pinjar" remains an underrated gem. 

Writer & Director: Rajat Mukherjee Producer: Ram Gopal Varma Cast: Urmila Matondkar, Fardeen Khan, Sonali Kulkarni, Suresh Oberoi & Rajpal Yadav Cinematography: Sanjay Kapoor Music: Sandeep Chowta "Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya" (2001) explores the dark side of unrequited love through Ria (Urmila Matondkar), whose obsession with photographer Jai (Fardeen Khan) spirals into madness, jeopardizing his life and marriage. Directed by Rajat Mukherjee, the film delves into psychological drama, marked by haunting performances and intense visuals.

Director: Jag Mundhra Writers: Carl Austin & Rahila Gupta Based on: The Circle of Light (book) Cast: Aishwarya Rai, Miranda Richardson, Robbie Coltrane, Naveen Andrews,Ray Panthaki & Nandita Das Cinematography: Madhu Ambat Music: A.R. Rahman In this episode, we delve into the gripping 2006 biographical drama "Provoked," featuring Aishwarya Rai in one of her most powerful roles. The film portrays the true story of Kiranjit Ahluwalia, an Indian woman who endures years of domestic abuse before fighting back and reshaping the British legal system. We explore Rai's poignant performance, the film's impactful storytelling, and its contribution to raising awareness about domestic violence among immigrant communities.

Director: Pradeep Sarkar Based on: Parineeta novel by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay Producer: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt, Dia Mirza, Raima Sen, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty Cinematography: Natarajan Subramaniam Music: Shantanu Moitra "Parineeta" ("The Married Woman") is a 2005 Hindi-language musical romance film adapted from Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's 1914 Bengali novella of the same name. Directed by Pradeep Sarkar in his debut, the screenplay was crafted by the film's producer, Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The movie features Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan, and Vidya Balan (making her debut) in the lead roles, with Raima Sen, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty, and Dia Mirza in supporting roles. The film includes several notable references to Indian literature and cinema.

Director: Shakun Batra Screenplay: Shakun Batra & Ayesha Devitre Dhillon Producer: Karan Johar for Dharma Productions Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Fawad Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt, Rajat Kapoor & Ratna Pathak Shah Cinematography: Jeffery F. Bierman Songs: Amaal Mallik, Badshah, Arko, Tanishk Bagchi, Benny Dayal, Nucleya Background Score: Sameer Uddin "Kapoor & Sons" is a 2016 Indian Hindi-language drama film that stands out as a masterclass in contemporary cinema. Directed by Shakun Batra and produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, the film features an ensemble cast including Rishi Kapoor, Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Rajat Kapoor. With a delicate balance of humor, emotion, and realism, "Kapoor & Sons" delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, personal aspirations, and the underlying tensions that often remain unspoken.

Writer, Director & Producer: Shoaib Mansoor Cast: Humaima Malik, Atif Aslam, Iman Ali, Mahira Khan, Shafqat Cheema, Manzar Sehbai, Zaib Rehman, Amr Kashmiri Music: Atif Aslam, Shoaib Mansoor, Sajjad Ali, Jafiey, Ahmed Jahanzeb, Hadiqa Kiyani, Ali Javed Bol, a Pakistani film directed by Shoaib Mansoor, was released in 2011 and quickly garnered attention for its bold and unflinching exploration of social issues in Pakistani society. This film is not just a narrative but a profound statement on the systemic problems that plague many families and communities. It dives into the depths of gender discrimination, economic hardship, and the struggle between tradition and modernity.

Director: Tanuja Chandra Writer: Mahesh Bhatt, Girish Dhamija Cast: Akshay Kumar, Preity Zinta & Ashutosh Rana  Lyrics: Sameer Music: Jatin- Lalit "Sangharsh," directed by Tanuja Chandra and penned by Mahesh Bhatt, stands as a hallmark in the genre of psychological thrillers within Hindi cinema. Released in 1999, this film diverged sharply from the conventional narratives prevalent at the time, delivering a chilling exploration of crime, sacrifice, and redemption.

Lajja (2001) Story, Direction & Dialogues: Rajkumar Santoshi Cast: Manisha Koirala, Rekha, Madhuri Dixit, Mahima Chaudhary, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Ajay Devgan, Danny Denzongpa, Suresh Oberoi, Gulshan Grover, Samir Soni, Rohini Hattangadi, Govind Namdeo, Sharman Joshi, Johnny Lever & Farida Jalal Lyrics: Sameer & Prasoon Joshi Music: Anu Malik Background Score: Illaiyaraaja Written Description: Released in 2001, "Lajja," directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, is a film that delves into the societal injustices faced by women in India. The movie interweaves the stories of four women, each representing different facets of oppression and resistance within a patriarchal framework.

Director: Mahesh Bhatt Writer: Mahesh Bhatt & Tanuja Chandra Cast: Paresh Rawal, Pooja Bhatt, Manoj Bajpayee, Sharad Kapoor, Zohra Sehgal, Ashutosh Rana, Akshay Anand, Sulabha Deshpande & Kamal Chopra Lyrics: Nida Fazli, Rahat Indori & Indeevar Music: Anu Malik In this episode, we're delving into the 1997 Hindi film "Tamanna," a touching and pioneering work directed by Mahesh Bhatt. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Bombay, this film unfolds the compelling themes of identity, acceptance, and the profound connections formed through unconventional love. It tells the story of Tikku, a Hijra who adopts and raises an abandoned infant, navigating the challenges and joys that follow. Today, we'll explore the film's impactful narrative, the standout performance by Paresh Rawal, and its lasting influence on cinema and culture.

Story, Screenplay & Direction: Anurag Basu Producer: Ronnie Screwvala  Cast: Dharmendra, Shilpa Shetty, Irrfan Khan, Kay Kay Menon, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kangana Ranaut, Sharman Joshi, Nafisa Ali, Shiney Ahuja Music: Pritam Lyrics: Sayeed Quadri Background Score: Raju Singh Anurag Basu, a director known for his eclectic filmography, ranging from bold thrillers to experimental narratives, brings to life the everyday struggles and dreams of metropolitan inhabitants. "Life In A Metro" is a testament to his ability to craft deep, meaningful stories without losing the commercial sheen that appeals to a broad audience.

Story & Direction: Mohit Suri Producer: Mahesh Bhatt for Vishesh Films Cast: Kunal Kemmu, Emraan Hashmi, Smiley Suri, Ashutosh Rana, Amrita Singh, Deepal Shaw, Atul Parchure, Nisha Lalwanil Music: Anu Malik, Jal Band, Amon Amarth, Soilwork Background Score: Raju Singh "Kalyug", directed by Mohit Suri, emerges as a compelling narrative that delves deep into the dark crevices of voyeurism and the illegal pornography trade, a subject matter that was, at the time, both taboo and largely unexplored in Indian films.

Page 3 (2005) Director: Madhur Bhandarkar Screenplay: Manoj Tyagi, Nina Arora Cast: Konkona Sen Sharma, Boman Irani, Atul Kulkarni, Sandhya Mridul, Tara Sharma, Anju Mahendroo, Soni Razdan, Upendra Limaye, Suhasini Mulay & Manoj Joshi Music: Virgin Emi, Shamir Tandon Background Score: Raju Singh In this week's episode of our podcast, we delve into the 2005 film "Page 3," a piece that stands out for its unapologetic portrayal of the lives behind the glitz and glamor of Indian high society. Directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, a filmmaker renowned for his commitment to realism in an era dominated by the fantastical elements of commercial cinema, "Page 3" offers a stark contrast to the usual song and dance of Bollywood, transporting us to the less seen, often darker, realities that lurk beneath the surface of pageantry.

Director: Mohit Suri Writer: Shagufta Rafique Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Jacqueliene Fernandez, Prashant Narayanan, Sulagna Panigrahi, Sudhanshu Pandey, Bikramjeet Kanwarpal, Shweta Kawaatra Music: Mithoon, Harshit Saxena, Sangeet Siddharth Background score: Raju Singh "Murder 2," a gripping 2011 psychological crime thriller directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Mukesh Bhatt, marked a significant deviation from the conventional roles that Emraan Hashmi had portrayed until then. This film delves into the dark underbelly of Goa, intertwining the lives of a former police officer turned private detective, Arjun Bhagwat (played by Emraan Hashmi), and a psychopathic serial killer, Dheeraj Pandey (portrayed by Prashant Narayanan).

Story, Screenplay & Direction: Nagesh Kukunoor Cast: Shreyas Talpade, Naseeruddin Shah, Girish Karnad, Shweta Basu Prasad, Yatin Karyekar & Prateeksha Lonkar Background score: Salim- Sulaiman In today's deep dive into the heart of Indian cinema, we explore the 2005 gem "Iqbal," a film that captures the essence of dreams, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit. Directed and written by Nagesh Kukunoor, "Iqbal" stands as a testament to storytelling that resonates deeply with its audience, weaving a narrative that is both inspiring and profoundly moving.

Director: Shyam Benegal Story & Screenplay: Khalid Mohamed Cast: Karisma Kapoor, Rekha, Manoj Bajpai, Amrish Puri, Surekha Sikri, Lillete Dubey, Rajit Kapoor, Farida Jalal & Seema Pahwa Lyrics: Javed Akhtar Music: A.R. Rahman In the array of Hindi cinema, where each film weaves its own unique story, "Zubeidaa" emerges as a rich, intricate embroidery that stands out for its storytelling, character portrayal, and cinematic execution. Directed by the venerable Shyam Benegal, a luminary known for his contribution to parallel cinema in India, "Zubeidaa" is not just a film; it is an exploration of identity, love, and the pursuit of freedom, wrapped in the opulent yet tragic real-life story of Zubeidaa, played with unforgettable grace by Karisma Kapoor.

Guddi (1971) Director: Hrishikesh Mukherjee Story: Gulzar Cast: Jaya Bhaduri, Dharmendra, Utpal Dutt, A.K. Hangal & Asrani Lyrics: Gulzar Music: Vasant Desai In the annals of Hindi cinema, the 1971 film "Guddi" shines as a beacon of storytelling purity and character-driven narrative, directed by the legendary Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Marking the debut of Jaya Bhaduri, who would later become one of Hindi cinema's most revered actresses, "Guddi" is a film that delicately balances the innocence of adolescence with a poignant critique of the film industry's glitz and glamor.

Writer & Director: Zoya Akhtar Cast: Konkana Sen Sharma, Farhan Akhtar, Hrithik Roshan, Isha Sharvani, Rishi Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia & Juhi Chawla Lyrics: Javed Akhtar Music: Shankar- Ehsaan- Loy "Luck By Chance," a 2009 Hindi film, marked the debut of the talented writer-director Zoya Akhtar. This cinematic venture offers a unique exploration of the filmmaking world, delving into the intricate processes that bring stories to life on the big screen. From Zoya's distinct perspective, the movie presents a refreshing take on Hindi cinema. At its core, the film follows the aspirations of an up-and-coming actor striving for success in Mumbai, navigating the complexities of relationships and industry dynamics along the way. 

Writer & Director: Anubhav Sinha Cast: Priyanshu Chatterjee, Sandali Sinha, Himanshu Malik & Raqesh Bapat Music: Nikhil- Vinay, T. S. Jarnail Lyrics: Faiz Anwar "Tum Bin" (2001) stands as a poignant testimony to the intricate dance of love and loss, delicately orchestrated by director Anubhav Sinha in his debut venture. Set against the backdrop of a tragic accident, the film unfurls the intertwined fates of its characters with a tender touch, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of its viewers.

Writer & Director: Khalid Mohamed Cast: Shabana Azmi, Urmila Matondkar, Dia Mirza, Arjun Rampal & Rishi Kapoor  Music: A. R. Rahman The film that I would like to speak about today is the 2003 movie Tehzeeb, directed by the veteran film critic & journalist Khalid Mohamed. This movie narrates the heart-rending story of Tehzeeb played by Urmila Matondkar and her mother Rukhsana Jamal played by Shabana Azmi whose lives are marked by tragedy and reconciliation.

Writer & Director: Imtiaz Ali Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Rishi Kapoor & Giselli Monteiro Music: Pritam & Salim-Suleiman Today's featured film is Imtiaz Ali's exquisite love story, “Love Aaj Kal,” released in 2009. Despite being less talked about compared to its counterparts in the director's filmography, it remains one of my all-time favorites. The film boasts a unique screenplay and enchanting music that leaves you wanting more.

Writer & Director: Meghna Gulzar Cast: Tabu, Sushmita Sen, Sanjay Suri, Palash Sen Music: Anu Malik In our first ever episode, we delve into the cinematic brilliance of Meghna Gulzar's debut masterpiece, "Filhaal", released in 2002. This exquisitely crafted film, ahead of its time, stands as a testament to the celebration of female friendship and bonding, a gem hidden from the mainstream spotlight which featured a stellar cast.

Welcome to Beyond Cinema with your host Nihita Bajaj Kumar. Since childhood, I've been immersed in the world of movies, captivated by the art of direction, magic of music, and power of storytelling. My love for cinema extends beyond just watching; it's a lifelong admiration, exploring direction, delving into the art of writing, uncovering archives, and venturing behind the scenes. This fascination has inspired me to embark on a journey to explore the nuances of filmmaking, and foster a community where fellow cinephiles can join me in unraveling the magic that makes Indian cinema extraordinary.