[ad_1]
The town of Shahkot in Punjab marks one of the many intersections between India and Pakistan, nations with a shared history that have vacillated between hatred and amity, with the former triumphing more than the latter. Written and directed by Rajiv Dhingra, and starring Guru Randhawa, Isha Talwar and Raj Babbar, the Punjabi-language romance drama Shahkot (2024), makes a bold statement as it explores the possibility of friendship and love winning despite all odds.
Iqbal (Guru Randhawa) and Sharafat (Gurshabad Singh) meet while trying to sneak out to foreign lands out of their respective countries. When Iqbal is caught in Pakistan, he is mistaken to be from Shahkot, Pakistan, and starts finding a way to get back home and evade the police. In doing so, he starts working in Abbaji’s (Raj Babbar) home, a politician whose clout keeps Iqbal from being detected. His daughter Marvi Cheema (Isha Talwar) takes a liking to Iqbal, but her father is all set to get her married to Nihaal. Iqbal is torn between doing the right thing and looking out for his own interests. However, when Abbaji decides to get Marvi married to Iqbal, things get complicated and Iqbal must decide what to do.
Guru Randhawa is the latest in a long line of Punjabi singers to turn towards acting. Making his debut in the sub-par Hindi language comedy, Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay (2024) earlier this year, his Punjabi film debut film has caused much excitement amongst his fans. Given that Randhawa has waited a while to embrace the acting profession, the subject matter of Shahkot is a bold one at a time when the relations between the two nations seem to be at an all-time low, and the release of a Pakistani blockbuster like The Legend of Maila Jatt is being denied in India.
Several instances in Shahkot resonate with the larger message of amity between the two nations. As Iqbal says, “God made man and man made borders and passports.” The shared language, culture, heritage and people is highlighted as the love between Iqbal and Marvi recognises no borders.
The cinematography is a highlight of the film, with stunning visuals of Kashmir that form the backdrop to the song “Badi Tanhai”, sung by Afsana Khan in her unmistakable, commanding voice. Guru Randhawa’s gentle, mellifluous voice is well suited to the poetic songs with melodic music. The soothing “Maula Meriya” and “Ve Bhedya” by Randhawa & Altamash Faridi are memorable numbers.
It is evident that Shahkot has tried to make an impact with its distinct choice of story; however, the screenplay falters in some places. The second half slumps and takes a while to get back on its feet. Furthermore, since there are several mainstream Hindi films that have explored a romance between a couple on opposite sides of the border, some plot developments are predictable. The dialogues, especially that of Isha Talwar, seem to be written in a hurry or without too much thought. We are also made aware that her character is a childish one, but not told what exactly is going on. The dialogues in Kashmiri require subtitles as one is left wondering about the exact import of the words. What stands out, though, is that Shahkot admits the reality of present-day situations and the ending reflects the limitations of its hope.
Also Read | Ctrl movie review: Ananya Panday, Vikramaditya Motwane film is two-dimensional
Isha Talwar, who has also made her Punjabi language debut with the film, has given a notable performance and her effervescence lights up the scenes that she is in. Randhawa is assured in his performance but his dialogue delivery needs a bit of work. The fine performances of Raj Babbar, Seema Kaushal, Gurshabad Singh bring heft to the film and Hardeep Gill as the Pakistani cop nails the accent with the Urdu inflections perfectly.
Punjabi films routinely include actors from Pakistan and feature Muslim characters in their films, highlighting the communal harmony that exists in Punjab. Through the journey of its protagonist, Shahkot is an important reminder that to love thy neighbour does not dilute one’s love for one’s nation in any way.
Shahkot movie cast: Guru Randhawa, Isha Talwar, Gurshabad, Raj Babbar, Hardeep Gill
Shahkot movie director: Rajiv Dhingra
Shahkot movie rating: 4 stars
[ad_2]
Source link
