Mission Mangal

A tribute to a great achievement of the Indian Space Program Mangalyaan, Mission Mangal is inspired by the true event of launching India’s first satellite into the orbit of planet Mars. The Indian scientists led mostly by women were able to achieve this feat in the first attempt which no other country has been able to do in the world. It is a laudable and proud moment to celebrate on Independence Day.

The film depicts all the events, trials, tribulations and struggles leading up to the successful and stellar launch of the satellite into the Mars orbit. Faced by hurdles that seemed to make the mission impossible, this film inspires pride watching a team of scientists making the impossible possible. Women scientists turn the tables using everyday household conservation techniques and wastage prevention methods. Techniques that are not only scientific but also cost-saving allowing the mission to succeed at minimal costs.

A great story made into a film for the Indian audience by adding in all the ingredients required to satisfy the Indian palate Mission Mangal will make its audience emotional. It has all the dishes with every spice that we Indians savor in our grand thali. Western scientific supremacy bullying Indian patriotic fervour adds the required pungent flavor. A wholesome character of Tara Shinde is played by Vidya Balan; that of the quintessential working Indian woman inspiring people at home and work. Tapsee, Nitya, Sonakshi, and Kirti give simple and elegant performances. Akshay Kumar is a complete waste of a cast. He does not have much of a role and feels useless.

The film overplays the emotional aspect of the great achievement making it too long. It could have been shorter and more work could have been done on showing the scientific part of the mission. A greater engagement on how the scientists faced scientific and execution hurdles instead of indulging in their personal lives would have been apt. It is a celebratory and tributary film for the Mars mission.

Rating – 3.5 / 5