The Maratha history has a list of brave leaders including the Great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. But, during the Great Kings regime there were many committed commanders , who sacrificed their lives for independence, while fighting against the Mughal army, to regain their forts. Brave Tanhaji Malusare was one of them. In 1903 Hari Narayan Apte wrote a novel on this great fighter who fought like a true commander with his perfect planning to attack Udaybhan Singh who had occupied Kondna ( Now Sinhagad) fort on behalf of Mughals. In 1933 Baburao Painter made a film ‘Sinhagad’ which was dedicated to Tanhaji Malusare’s bravery act.
Now, Ajay Devgn has made a film ‘Tanhaji’ which is also based on the life of this brave commander of Shivaji Maharaj. Playing himself the title role, Ajay Devgn perfectly suits in this character because of his image of an angry young man and a perfect protagonist. The biggest advantage of making this film in modern times is the advancement to technology, which has helped in creating that required impact through this period war film. With spectacular action scenes and 3 D effect, the film certainly inspires one and all.
There are three songs which are also very nicely picturised with superb camerawork , perfect costume designs and good choreography. The music is also appealing and so is the cinematography. What really appeals is the gripping screenplay and well written dialogues besides very good direction. Arial photography is also Performance wise Ajay Devgn lives up to the expectations from his well wishers and has done remarkably well. In the role of his wife, Kajol has limited scope but she has impressed through all those scenes to her share. As Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sharad Kelkar too does not have big scope, but he has played his part well. Saif Ali Khan is also impressive in his negative role of Udaybhan Singh Rathore. In the other important character roles, Luke Kenny, Padmavati Raio, Devdatt Nage, Neha Sharma, Ajinkya Deo, Shashank Shende and others offer good support.
All in all, Ajay Devgn as an actor and Nitin Raut as director have succeeded in bringing an important episode of Maratha history live on big screen . Certainly a worth watch action packed period film.
Rating ( ****)