Parched

“Parched” is a Hindi-language drama film that was released on September 23, 2016. Directed by Leena Yadav, the movie explores themes of gender inequality, societal norms, and the resilience of women in rural India. With a stellar cast featuring Radhika Apte, Tannishtha Chatterjee, and Surveen Chawla, “Parched” delves into the lives of three women navigating through oppression and seeking freedom. The film blends raw emotions with stunning visuals, creating an impactful cinematic experience.

Plot Summary

Set in a drought-stricken village in Rajasthan, “Parched” follows the intertwined lives of Rani (Tannishtha Chatterjee), Lajjo (Radhika Apte), and Bijli (Surveen Chawla). Each woman battles her own struggles—Rani is a widow burdened by societal expectations, Lajjo faces domestic abuse, and Bijli, a dancer, is judged for her lifestyle. Together, they form a bond of friendship and support, dreaming of a life beyond the confines of their oppressive environment. The film captures their journey of self-discovery, courage, and empowerment without losing touch with the harsh realities they face.

What’s Good?

1. Powerful Performances:
The performances in “Parched” are nothing short of extraordinary. Tannishtha Chatterjee brings depth and vulnerability to Rani’s character, making her struggles and resilience deeply relatable. Radhika Apte’s portrayal of Lajjo is equally compelling, showcasing a mix of fragility and strength. Surveen Chawla’s Bijli adds vibrancy and boldness to the narrative, creating a perfect balance among the trio.

2. Direction and Storytelling:
Leena Yadav’s direction is one of the strongest aspects of the film. She weaves a story that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, highlighting the harsh realities of patriarchy while celebrating the indomitable spirit of women. The screenplay is nuanced, capturing the characters’ emotions and struggles with authenticity.

3. Cinematography:
Russell Carpenter’s cinematography deserves special mention. The arid landscapes of Rajasthan are captured beautifully, juxtaposing the starkness of the setting with the vibrancy of the characters’ inner worlds. The use of light and color enhances the emotional tone of the film.

4. Music and Background Score:
The music by Hitesh Sonik complements the narrative perfectly. The songs and background score add layers of emotion, drawing viewers deeper into the story. Traditional Rajasthani elements in the music provide cultural authenticity.

5. Social Relevance:
“Parched” tackles issues like child marriage, domestic violence, and sexual repression with sensitivity and courage. It sparks important conversations about gender roles and societal norms, making it more than just a film—it’s a call for change.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• The film’s ability to blend hard-hitting social commentary with engaging storytelling is commendable.
• The chemistry among the lead actresses adds depth and authenticity to their friendship.
• The visual and emotional impact of the film lingers long after the credits roll.

Weaknesses:

• The pacing in certain parts of the film feels uneven, with some scenes dragging unnecessarily.
• While the story is powerful, a few subplots could have been explored further for better closure.
• The male characters, though essential to the narrative, often feel one-dimensional.

Target Audience

“Parched” is best suited for viewers who appreciate meaningful cinema that addresses social issues. It’s a must-watch for those interested in stories of women’s empowerment and resilience. The film’s mature themes make it more suitable for adult audiences, particularly those who enjoy thought-provoking dramas.

Box Office Details

Budget: “Parched” was made on a modest budget of approximately INR 6 crores.

Worldwide Box Office Collection: The film earned around INR 15 crores globally, receiving critical acclaim both in India and internationally.

Day-wise Earnings:

• Day 1 (India): INR 1.25 crores
• Day 2 (India): INR 1.50 crores
• Day 3 (India): INR 1.75 crores
• Day 4 (India): INR 0.85 crores
• Day 5 (India): INR 0.90 crores

Overseas Earnings: The film performed exceptionally well in international film festivals and niche markets, contributing significantly to its overall collection.

Recommendation

“Parched” is a poignant and visually stunning film that sheds light on pressing social issues while celebrating the strength of women. Despite its minor flaws, it’s a deeply moving experience that deserves to be watched. Highly recommended for those seeking impactful, socially relevant cinema.

Genres:

Drama

Rating:

7.4/10

Cast:

Actor	Character
Radhika Apte	Lajjo
Tannishtha Chatterjee	Rani
Sayani Gupta	Champa
Surveen Chawla	Bijli
Adil Hussain	Mystic Lover
Sumeet Vyas	Kishan
Riddhi Sen	Gulab
Lehar Khan	Janaki
Chandan Anand	Rajesh
Farrukh Jaffar	Janki’s Grandma
Mahesh Balraj	Manoj
Tanya Sachdeva	Rekha
Kamla Devi	Amma
Daddi Pandey	Sharma Ji

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