Screenplay and Direction –
Samruddhi Porey
Cast – Nana Patekar, Sonali
Kulkarni, Mohan Agashe, Ashish Chougule, Tejashri Pradhan
Samruddhi
Porey who shot to critical acclaim with ‘Mala Aai Vhaychay’ returns to the
director’s seat with Dr. Prakash Baba Amte, a biopic inspired by the true story
of Prakash Amte and his wife Mandakini. It tells us how the doctor turned
social activists worked for the upliftment of tribals.
Due
to lack of funds Prakash and his brother Vikas are forced to study medicine. Love
blossoms in college for Prakash where he meets Mandakini. With the blessings of
his father Baba (Mohan Agashe) and Sadhana Amte both are married. They relocate
to a remote Hemalkasa determined to continue the work of Baba where they face new
challenges everyday.
The
film focuses on several aspects – the Naxalite movement of the 70’s, the sorry state
of the tribals, corrupt government administration, atrocities of the cops, lack
of public support, lack of medical facilities, the superstition present in
villages and the love for animals. With the help of a few dedicated colleagues
the couple is able to adjust to these situations. However, there are tense moments
along the way.
Nana
Patekar and Sonali Kulkarni are fabulous as Prakash and Mandakini Amte
respectively. The ease with which they have acted shows their experience of the
big screen. Sonali brings a fresh lease of life to the character of Mandakini
while words are less to explain the sheer brilliance of Nana.
The
script is simple and swift covering all the important events in Dr. Prakash’s
life. Samruddhi Porey hardly falters in capturing the village moments. Cinematography
gets full marks. The film was shot at actual locations and some scenes
involving the tribals might just move you to tears. I strongly believe that
after watching this film you should read Sadhana Amte’s autobiography ‘Samidha’. Baba and Sadhanatai’s story is
equally touching.
I am going with four out of five stars
for Dr. Prakash Baba Amte. Seldom do you come across such a gem of Marathi
cinema. Catch it in a theatre near you.
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