Director: Gippy Grewal
Cast: Ammy Virk, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Mandy Takhar, Isha Rikhi, Rana Ranbir, Mehar Vij, Karamjit Anmol, BN Sharma, Sardar Sohi, Harinder Bhullar, Hobby Dhaliwal
With just 20 minutes into 'Ardaas', it is easy to perceive the core theme – we reap many blessings only if we have faith in the power of prayer.
Even though there have been several films that delve into the significance of religion, only a few have managed to wake up people spiritually. Incredibly moving with astounding cinematography, Gippy Grewal’s directorial venture ‘Ardaas’ succeeds in waking people up to kindness and love.
Set in the rural Punjab, the film begins with the beautiful recitation of Gurbaani, which not only explains the need to know God and build a relationship with Him, but also the importance to learn from Him what His will is for us. From praying for guidance to praying in gratitude and praise, the film’s pious beginning hints at the spiritually enriching experience it offers.
Even though the movie flashes back and forth in time, its essence is captured beautifully via Gurpreet Chuggi’s character Gurmukh Singh.
A city-based teacher Gurmukh decides to work for a school in village where he realises the issues of the local people and helps them combat them.
Gurpreet, who has been everyone’s favourite funnyman, makes us cry in ‘Ardaas’ and even feel real empathy for his character. Having worked in several Punjabi films, Gurpreet has undoubtedly excelled in his usual funny roles, but he surprises viewers with a poignant, moving act that bring us through the emotional ringer.
He dominates the pathos-laden plot with his flawless dialogue delivery and wide range of emotions. He nails this challenging role with confidence. While his performance transforms ‘Ardaas’ for the better, it also open new doors for actors with a range of astounding talents.
It is interesting to see how the film’s supporting actors serve up strong performances. Ammy Virk is suitably striking as Aasi and Rana Ranbir makes a big impression as local postmaster Lottery with a huge heart. Mandy Thakkar plays her part (waiting for her husband to come back even as she fears he is dead) with honesty and conviction.
As far as other key roles go, the film benefits from a genuine touch of reality and pain in young kid Mithu. Your heart goes out to him in scenes where he doesn’t want to confront the fact that his father (Gippy Grewal) isn’t alive. He brings innocence to the character, and steals the film.
Much like any Punjabi film, ‘Ardaas’ too offers a bit of action, romance, comedy, but it helps the viewers feel a sense of having witnessed something that touches a chord.
From focusing on the sensitive topic of female foeticide, to showing the impact of widespread usage of drugs, need for professional ambitions and a young boy praying hard to reunite with father – the film wins hearts of many people by impacting their lives.
What the film also gets bang on is the milieu: the language, the atmospherics, and the soul-stirring moments that you can’t shake off.
Seizing your attention from the moment in, the film’s crisp narrative never loosens its grip.
Go watch ‘Ardaas’ as it will help you understand how every experience in your life has the potential of becoming a spiritual experience. Before you dismiss any experience as ordinary, do think if it can turn into vast, enlightening connection with the Divine. There is nothing more spiritual than surrendering your life to God.
Rating: 4/5
Comments
0 comment