Reflections on Sairat: Scenes That Left Me Feeling Sad and Concerned

I recently watched the film Sairat, and I must say that I loved the movie. However, as someone deeply invested in promoting positive societal values, my experience of the film was marred by some scenes that left me feeling sad and concerned. In this article, I will discuss the particular scenes that made me think about the implications these might have on our culture and society. But let me not forget to acknowledge once again the masterful storytelling by Nagraj Manjule, who created a film that resonated with many, especially from rural areas.

Scene 1: Archie’s Tone with Her Mother

One of the scenes that struck me emotionally was the interaction between Archie and her mother while she was talking to Parshya on the phone. Archie’s tone was something that I would never use with my own mother, especially not when I have a secret love affair. The unhinged nature of her behavior towards her mother felt misplaced and painful. This particular moment in the film resonated with me not just because of the sadness it evoked, but also because it might be imitated by young people who view it as simply another form of cool and rebellious behavior.

Scene 2: Humiliating Teachers

The second scene that brought out a sense of sadness and concern was the portrayal of the teachers. All the leads in the film humiliated the teachers in their interactions, which is problematic. This portrayal was particularly alarming since the fan base that the movie garnered was mainly from rural areas. Young people from these regions might start emulating the characters, thinking they are doing something cool and fashionable. However, this could have a detrimental effect on the respect for teachers and the value placed on education in these areas.

Scene 3: The Climax and “Easy Money”

The climax of the film, which deals with the concept of 'easy money', was another moment that left me feeling sad. In one of the scenes, Archie discusses with her mother about her and Parshya’s salary, stating they earn 40 thousand rupees a month. As someone who has witnessed the struggles of parents working tirelessly for years to earn a monthly income of around 35 thousand rupees, it is a stark reminder of the harsh reality many families face.

Conclusion and Reflection

While Sairat is a cinematic masterpiece, it is crucial to critically evaluate the messages it conveys. The fan base it has garnered from rural areas is worrisome, as any positive impact of the film must be balanced against its potential negative effects. It is essential to address these concerns and think about how we can ensure films like Sairat do not inadvertently promote behaviors or values that could be harmful to our society.

A heartfelt thank you to Nagraj Manjule for creating a film that resonated so deeply with so many people. His talent and storytelling abilities are truly commendable.