Monday 3 August 2020

Shakuntala Devi




Being a woman is not easy. And only a woman can handle the feat. This film explores the essence of womanhood through three generations.  The equations three mothers and their daughters share as they balance womanhood and motherhood going through immense emotions and strong bonding. Shakuntala Devi was a celebrated Indian mathematician who became famous for her gifts with numbers and the ability to solve complex arithmetic in a very short time. She was a strong woman and challenged the patriarchy and dominance of men in an age where the woman had to be confined to the four walls of her home and take care of the family. With her abilities, she carved her own life path to do what she wanted and live her life on her own terms. But to what extent was she ready to lead her life on her own terms?  Things get a little complicated when the family and a child come into play. She didn't want to sacrifice her life for her family's sake. Though her husband understands it, will the daughter understand? Will the daughter who is deprived of her childhood and father's love forgive a woman who forced her to change her life for her ambitions? Will the strong, independent woman forgive her mother for not standing up to her father when it was most needed?  These questions will be answered by women who chose to be women in spite of being mothers, wives, and daughters.

On the eve of Raksha Bandhan, this film explores the complex lives of women who made a mark in history even though their personal lives suffered. An inspiring story of a woman who chose her heart over everything else and yet managed to love her daughter more than anything else. Vidya Balan is her true self again and dictates the screen as a protagonist. Sanya gives a heart touching performance and stands out distinctly throughout the story.

Rating - 4 / 5 

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