Bandaa Singh Chaudhary
Cast: Arshad Warsi, Meher Vij
Where to watch : Theatres
Runtime: 114 minutes
Producers:- Arbaaz Khan and Manish Mishra, Abhishek Saxena, Kalapi Nagada, Kranti Shanbhag, Meher Vij Productions, Ajay Chabbria, Anuup Thapa, Amita Mishra
Rating – ***1/2 (3.5/5)
Abhishek Saxena’s Bandaa Singh Chaudhary tells the story of Bandaa (Arshad Warsi), his wife Laali (Meher Vij), and their village as they confront armed separatists from the Khalistan movement in the aftermath of the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The film, running close to two hours, delves into the terror that pushes an ordinary man to become a warrior to protect his family and community. It also highlights the camaraderie within the village and the resolve of the Sikh community to defend their loved ones.
Saxena presents a heartfelt portrayal of the relationship between Bandaa and Laali, capturing the family’s close-knit bond and unwavering support for each other, even in the face of danger. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the grim realities of the violence that gripped Punjab during the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s, portraying the struggles endured by the Hindu community during the height of communal tensions.
Co-written by Shaheen Iqbal and Saxena, with screenplay dialogues by Iqbal, Bandaa Singh Chaudhary authentically recreates the atmosphere of 1980s Punjab, showing the impact of the violence on the Hindu community. The narrative is raw and direct, offering a stark glimpse into the challenges faced during that period.
The music of the film leaves an impression, especially the title track “Sun Bandeya,” which is likely to stick with the audience long after the film ends. The soundtrack is varied, offering a range of songs that touch on themes of love, family, resilience, and heartbreak.
Arshad Warsi convincingly portrays the role of a Hindu man from Punjab, delivering a performance that feels true to the character with his dialogue and demeanor. Meher Vij, as Laali, stands out as a strong presence, complementing Warsi’s portrayal with her determination and strength.
Bandaa Singh Chaudhary offers a poignant glimpse into the harsh realities of life in Punjab during a turbulent time, effectively blending its emotional and historical elements. While the music and background score enhance the experience, the film stays grounded in the tough experiences it portrays.
