The much talked about and critically acclaimed movie Chhapaak is a must watch for audience of every age and stage. Yes, for children it might not be recommended as there are scenes that would be disturbing. But even after that, it can not be denied that this film is an emotional roller coaster with a distinct message from acid attack survivors.
“It would have been so nice if the acid was not sold, it would have never got thrown”, one of the prime dialog spoken by Malti Aggarwal (Deepika Padukone), who is a school student, ambitious on going big in life and wants to make her parents proud of her achievements. Unfortunately, with the unfolding of circumstances she becomes a prey in hands of Basheer Shaikh (Vishal Dahiya), a family friend, who randomly chooses a day and decides to throw acid on her face with the help of a mutual friend. He decides to do so because he did not get the same reception as he desired for the advances he made on Malti.
It is after this that the film shows the journey of an acid attack survivor, when she undergoes several surgeries, how she copes with the new identify bestowed on her, extensive campaign that she undertakes against the sale of acid, offering affordable treatment to survivors along with leading an NGO Chhaya which deals with issues related to acid attack survivors, and then, going to next level of filing a PIL (Public interest litigation) in Supreme court for a total ban on the sale of acid.
Meghna Gulzar has touched a topic which could have surly gone unnoticed in Indian society and culture which is plagued with patriarchal social system. Where incidents like these are either brushed under the carpet or worst, not reported to the police. It is good to know that directors like Meghna are at least trying to narrate incidents like these to open eyes of masses who like to ape the characters in Bollywood movies, one of the main source of entertainment for Indian audience.
For a change, it is nice to see that Chhapaak jumps straight into the matter and does not adopt typical musical film genres. Deepika has acted well and her make up accompanied with visual effects are quite subtle. The cast also includes real acid attack survivors, this compliment and sits perfectly with Deepika’s role. It is a delight to see that Malti finds comfort and a shoulder to rest on Amol ( Vikrant Massey), proving that even an acid attack survivor can have a normal life.
Compliments to Gulzar for showcasing that even amidst all the tragedy, the victims are optimistic, they are trying to love, laugh and live a normal life.
-Vritti Parasher
