MAHARAJ

“God is present in all religions. Religion may not be perfect, but it is a well-built boat that can stay balanced and carry you to the other shore. Our life is nothing but a boat adrift on water, balanced by permanent uncertainty.”

The above quote is from the movie Sunshine, and I couldn’t help but think about this quote while watching Maharaj – A YRF production directed by Sidharth Anand, starring Jaideep Ahlawat, and the launch vehicle of Junaid Khan, Son of Aamir Khan, that had its release on Netflix after getting the go-ahead from courts.

The movie is based on a true story that took place in the mid-19th century. The film centers on the beliefs and customs of Pushtimarg Sampradaya, descendants of Vallabhacharya, and the followers of Shrinathji. It questions some of the customs that were exploitative and the blind belief that made the Maharaj above scrutiny.

Strength of the film –

• The controversy surrounding the release did create a buzz that made me watch the film.
• The film has a run time of around 2 hours so it remains taut and does not waiver from the main theme.
• It raises important question about God – Devotee and the intermediaries involved.
• Jaideep Ahalawat as Jadunath Maharaj is fabulous – he is part serene, part vicious and absolutely menacing.
• Being an YRF Production the look and feel is rich and vibrant.

Weakness of the film –

• The treatment of the film is very 60’s. With a vile-lusty priest, innocent heroine and a hero taking the high moral ground. I mean come on grow up , no Gen Z will ever vibe with this film.
• Junaid Khan as Karsandas Mulji – A social reformer who runs his own newspaper is complete let down. He neither has the screen presence nor holds ones attention. He is burdened with too many ‘dialogues’ that are too filmy, cheesy and ज्ञान वर्धक . Whatever good genes that he has on the physical side is cut to half by the atrocious pencil thin moustache.
• The graphics are shoddy especially when they have to us the Arabian Sea as the background. YRF needs to fire the CGI team or else give them a pay cut.

And in the end I come to the main topic i.e.  films and religious reforms. I believe our beliefs should stand the test of times and be relevant.

However my basic objections to these kinds of reformist films are –

• Why is Hinduism the only religion which is subjected to such great scrutiny?
• Have they ever had the audacity to question the beliefs and customs of other religions such vociferously?

Till that very time they answer these questions, you can skip this one and watch Junaid’s father’s Epic PK instead!!

Just to add a disclaimer – Our family is devout Vaishnavites and are the followers of Shrinathji. My Great Grand Mother had taken Brahm Sambandh and my family roots are based in Nathdwara the abode of Shrinathji.

Also sharing the link for additional information of the above mentioned sect – https://www.nathdwaratemple.org/pushtimarg/pushtimarg