Lage Raho Rajkumar Hirani!

“Lage Raho Munna Bhai” is one of those rare movies in Bollywood which would appeal universally – one that would go down well with people of every age group or strata of society; Rajkumar Hirani has ensured that like its predecessor, LRMB delights you in every frame. His is a unique attempt at reviving the Hrishikesh Mukherjee genre of filmmaking but tailored to today’s times.

The success of the movie, very obviously, lies in its ability to package Satyagraha & Truth, mostly perceived as weighty or obsolete ideas, into popular milieu. I do not really buy the idea (which is floating around news channels & media) that this movie will infuse a new of wave of Gandhism in our country; people will watch it for what it is – a “masala” movie. However, I do feel that the film has thoughtful moments which question our responsibility as Indians, holding the mirror to us as to how we relate today to the ideals that were laid down by the Father of our Nation.

Whilst comparisons to Munna Bhai MBBS are inevitable, there is nothing common except for the characters of Munna & Circuit; it is definitely not a sequel. I guess, while MBBS did not have onus of preaching anything (except for general goodness) to its audience, this one does try to send across a message. But the treatment is definitely “hatke” as all proceedings are kept in a lighter vein, garnished with Bollywood “masala” fare. You do keep smiling, when you are not laughing, all through the film. The director blends all the genres of Bollywood & yet comes out with a product that is not a mish-mash. There’s the typical guy falling for girl & then wooing her, then there’s the band of elders who live life with zest, there’s this amazing camaraderie between Munna & Circuit, there’s also the bad guy with a human (and funny) side – all this against the backdrop of a fight for justice. The story, despite lots of sub-plots, is held taut with a remarkable screenplay. The songs flow with the film & one did not expect them to be the highlight of such a film.

Sanjay Dutt, as the protagonist, is once again in his “bhai” element replete with an innocence that is difficult to put into words. Boman Irani portraying the builder sardarji is commendable in his character. Vidya Balan as the beautiful RJ displays tremendous talent & elevates the movie with her performance.

But of the entire cast, it is Arshad Warsi as “Circuit” who is most endearing. You can replace any character from the movie, even think of someone else playing Munna Bhai, but the panache with which Arshad brings Circuit to life simply sets his act apart! His inane devotion towards Munna makes him the perfect sidekick; his comic repartee has you in splits all through the movie.

All in all, LRMB is wholesome Bollywood entertainment – one that should not be missed!

P.S. I do not intend to make this a movie blog. However, it does indicate that there aren’t many interesting things happening in my life