What you seek is seeking you
Passion versus practicality and excellence versus success have been topics of never ending debate in India. Talent is inborn, but the skill development and capitalizing purely depend on an individual’s journey. Performing arts garner majorly three types of seekers viz. i) the traditionals who worship them in their purest form, ii) the contemporary who study them as art forms, but also evolve with changing times and adapt to latest trends, iii) the ones who balance between both. Admirers also typically fall under the above categories. The role of a GURU or MENTOR in one’s life also plays a major ‘part’ in building relationship with the ‘art’, and future perspectives.
Chaitanya Tamhane’s “The Disciple” with INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC as its backdrop, walks us through an ardent seeker & vocalist Sharad Nerulkar’s sincere pursuit towards achieving goals, aligned with traditions and discipline of his musical lineage. At the same time, Sharad’s internal struggles viz. peer comparison, loneliness, reminiscence of his recent past, personal life, etc are matters of equal concern for him. Whether he successfully manages to carve a path for himself through this chaos or chooses to remain status quo as a seeker is how the story unfolds.
Chaitanya’s narrative runs slowly but smoothly. The treatment may appear a bit ‘documentary-ish’. Sharad’s evolution through thoughts is effectively showcased through his interaction with his Guruji and voice over’s of Maai, his Guru’s teacher. Michał Sobociński’s stunning visuals through some of the most common locales of Mumbai are exceptional. To add to it, Pooja Talreja and Ravin Karde ensure that the set designs are simple yet noteworthy. Aneesh Pradhan and Naren Chandavarkar’s soulful music is icing to the cake.
Performance wise, Aditya Modak as the protagonist is phenomenal. His transformation through the film both as a character and physically is seamless. Veteran vocalist Dr. Arun David as Pandit Vinayak Pradhan is a complete natural. Kiran Yadnopavit excels in a brief role. Other actors, Abhishek Kale, Deepika Bhide, Neela Khedekar, Kristy Banerjee and Prasad Vanarse provide adequate support.
However, the soul of the film is Late Sumitra Bhave’s (Maai) voice over. Her towering presence through mesmerizing monologues is not just relevant to the theme, but carries strong symbolism to bitter truths and life lessons in general.
Overall, the Disciple is a must watch, esp. for young aspirants to understand the significance of growth and learning throughout one’s life.
Rating: ****
We The People 