Vidya Balan finds another opportunity to display variety through ‘Begum Jaan’


She has been lucky to portray strong protagonists and the various characters played by her, have been acknowledged in the media, for bringing in that desired change, in the concept of a Bollywood’s  leading lady image . Vidya  made her grand debut in Bollywood, through the film ‘Parineeta’.  And thereafter, for the past 12 years, she has established herself, so as to be among top three successful actresses in Bollywood.   Recipient of several awards, including a National Film Award, Vidya  was also awarded the prestigious Padma Shri honour by the Government of India in 2014.Begum jaan poster

With her latest film ‘Begum Jaan’ she has another feather in her cap, as Vidya has lived up to the expectations of her admirers and also her National Film Award-winning director Srijit Mukherji . The title role in this film, is almost tailor made to exploit her potential. To be precise, this film offers Vidya, Vidya and Vidya at her best, from start to finish.

‘Begum Jaan’ is actually remake of the Bengali film Rajkahini (2015) and  is a period drama film, set in the backdrop of late Indian Independence period of 1948. Produced by Mukesh Bhatt, Vishesh Bhatt and Play Entertainment, the film offers an interesting plot, when after the declaration of partition between India and Pakistan, a huge Kothi) Brothel) run by influential Begum Jaan( Vidya Balan) comes under scanner, as the border line decided by the authorities of both the countries, passes through her place.

Begum Jaan and her entire team refuse to vacate and they dare to defend themselves against the armed police force. There are other important characters in the film, played by Naseeruddin Shah in the role of a helpless Maharaja, who loses his powers after democracy established in independent India.  Among the other artistes Chunkey Pandey makes a surprise appearance as a villain hired by administrators to tackle the strong resistance from Begum Jaan and her team. Even Vivek Mushran the star of early 90s is seen in an important role of a teacher who betrays Begum Jaaan later.

The language is rough in the film filled with usage of bad words , suited to the respective characters, but the film fails to create the desired impact, as expected due to over stretching of the concluding part with a tragedy . Music is not very appealing. But, cinematography by Gopi Bhagat and sincere performances by supporting cast, makes this film presentable to a certain extent. All in all, ‘Begum Jaan’ has turned out to be just an average period film.

Rating (**1/2)