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Bollywood
has finally managed to come up with a well researched and crafted
product in the form of ‘Agni Varsha’ (meaning ‘The Holy Fire’).
This
film comes as a breath of fresh air when only few films are based
on similar themes in this day and age.
Based
on the acclaimed Girish Karnad play ‘The Fire And The Rain’, the
film's story is based on the legend of Yavakri which was derived
from the Indian mythological epic, Mahabharata.
The
film opens on the drought-stricken land, where High Priest, Paravasu
(Jackie Shroff) has been chosen to conduct the ‘yagna’ (Holy fire
ceremony) to appease Lord Indra (Amitabh Bachchan).
Paravasu
happily dedicates seven years of his life to the ‘yagna’ by forsaking
his beautiful wife, Vishakha (Raveena Tandon), his family and every
earthly pleasures.
Paravasu's
cousin, the resentful rival Yavakri (Nagarjuna), strongly opposes
Paravasu's position as High Priest. Hence he decides to seek revenge
by seducing his lonely wife Vishakha.
The
audience also gets to see a sub-plot based on Arvasu (Milind Soman),
Paravasu's younger brother. Being in love with Nittilai (Sonali
Kulkarni), a tribal girl, he is all set to defy his family status
by marrying her.
Disturbed
by Yavakri’s jealous behaviour, Raibhya, the father of Paravasu,
decides to unleash upon him a demon, the Rakshasa (Prabhu Deva).
Hence
what follows next is a battle of wits which exudes with suspense
galore as to who will win in the end.
Director
Arjun Sajnani has definitely defied the Bollywood norms by attempting
something very different which he succeeds in the process.
The
excellent performances by all the lead cast manages to hold the
audience’s attention throughout the film.
Raveena
Tandon looks ravishing; Jackie Schoff impresses ; Milind Soman gives
his best to date whilst Sonali Kulkarni is simply brilliant.
Anil
Metha’s cinematography is a sheer treat for the eyes. He has definitely
put his very best into this project and his efforts do show on screen.
One
thing for sure . . . .this film might not attract a huge audience
but it sure has passed with flying colours at the Manchester Film
Festival earlier this year where it received a standing ovation.
If
you are looking for something serious to get your teeth into then
this film is definitely for you!
Reviewed
By Manish Gajjar, Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú Shropshire’s Mr Bollywood.
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