In a world where everyone thinks of one’s own convenience, making a film on a Gandhian and his 30 years long struggle with India’s beauracracy may initially not appeal to most. But Ananth Mahadevan’s latest film ‘Gour Hari Dastaan’, featuring Vinay Pathak, Konkona Sen Sharma and Ranvir Shorey is a film that not only narrates an inspiring story of a former freedom fighter but also highlighted some relevant issues that exist in our society.
Vinay Pathak plays Oriya freedom fighter Gour Hari Das, who fought red tapism and corruption for 30 years long to get a freedom fighter’s certificate that he rightfully deserved. A compelling story of how an individual emerges as winner after facing years of hardship, the story imparts some valuable life lessons that hold relevance in current times.
Patience: It took 30 long years for Gour Hari Das to prove to the world that he had fought for the freedom of his motherland as a young 13 year old informant. He had to make several rounds of several government offices to prove himself right, every time being turned away by some official on some pretext but Das never lost his cool and never gave up hope.
Never give up: Das’s struggle was a long one. And he was discouraged on several occasions to give up the pursuit of attaining the certificate. With each passing year, Das was also becoming slower, weaker and losing memory as he was diagnosed with early stage of Alzheimer but his grit and determination to attain the certificate and legitimate recognition from the government of India won over his problems.
Honesty: Truth always triumphs, no matter what. The film shows how a frail Das battles society pressures and cynics from all quarters but sticks to his stand. He is ready to wait for years but doesn’t take short cuts to finish his job. Neither does he bribe his way to attain the certificate.
Loyalty: A Gadhian by nature, he speaks no evil of his country despite the fact that the country has wronged him on several occasions. For that matter, he doesn’t speak ill of any of the corrupt bureaucrats he encounters in his journey. He remains loyal to his motherland and his principal despite all odds.
To help others: Das follows the policy of parupkar- to help others in time of need. In a very poignant moment in the film, Pathak explains that how no one feels the need to help others in present times. He points out that in pre-independent era, people were more forthcoming to help a person is distress which no more exists in today’s day and age.
The film may be too idealistic for the current generation, but interestingly the film does not preach these lessons at all. A tale of a common man's fight against Indian bureaucracy, 'Gour Hari Dastaan' creates a powerful impact in the audience's mind. The story is enhanced by powerful performances by Vinay Pathak, Ranvir Shorey and Konkona Sen Sharma. It is heartwarming story of despair and hope and is something that needs a lot of support from the viewers.
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